PHOENIX – In a league obsessed with fast starts, Jordan Ott’s first real decision as the newest Head Coach of the Phoenix Suns was a slow, deliberate one.
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Mar 28, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) dunks for a basket against the Toronto Raptors in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Ott confirmed after the Phoenix Suns practice on Thursday that newly acquired center Mark Williams will be on a minutes restriction to begin the season. (Credit: Kellan Olson | Arizona Sports) On paper, this could sound like a setback. Although strategically, it’s anything but. Williams, a 7-footer known for his rim protection and vertical spacing, is going to be a massive piece of the puzzle for the Suns this upcoming season, though, with his previous injury history, Phoenix is choosing to play it safe. Ott emphasized the long game and spoke about how Williams will be a huge part of what the Suns want to be defensively. Phoenix will need him healthy in April, not overworked in October.
Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) reacts to an official’s call during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images
For Phoenix fans, this might test patience. The hunger to see Phoenix’s revamped core of Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Mark Williams from day one is real. But Ott’s message is clear, and he believes in sustainable success through load management. This is a calculated pivot from the injury-riddled campaigns of seasons past.
Sep 24, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Suns center Williams (15) poses for portrait during Media Day at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The takeaway for Suns fans is that Phoenix isn’t chasing October headlines; they’re setting up for June basketball. With the right decision-making and making sure that the depth of this Suns team can be threatening throughout the entire season, Phoenix’s front office recognizes that that’s a culture shift worth watching.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona Cardinals for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
