Oso Ighodaro is winning the Suns’ center battle for a reason

John Voita argues that Oso Ighodaro holds a solid lead over Khaman Maluach in the Phoenix Suns' starting center battle. With Mark Williams sidelined for multiple months, head coach Jordan Ott has started Ighodaro through the first two preseason games. Voita highlights Ighodaro's superior offensive facilitation, screening, and cerebral floor awareness as key traits that effectively complement fellow starters Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Miles Bridges.

While Maluach provides desirable physical tools and potential floor-spacing, Voita notes that the rookie has struggled with positioning, reactivity, and rebounding execution. Ighodaro has shot 71.4% from the field and recorded a +12 through two preseason contests, with Voita concluding that Ott is rightfully prioritizing veteran reliability and defensive versatility over raw developmental upside.