INDIANAPOLIS – The Phoenix Suns are continuing on a tough road trip tonight against the Indiana Pacers, but the most intriguing development surrounding the team happened hours before tipoff as Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams looked strong in a shootaround session.
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Jan 19, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Phoenix guard/forward Brooks (3) warms up before a game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
During morning pregame warmups, Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams were both on the floor, moving, testing, and participating in controlled work. Dillon Brooks was moving through contact drills, and even with his cast on, it was a welcome sight to see for Phoenix. Williams, on the other hand, went through sessions without his boot on. That might sound routine. For Phoenix, it’s anything but. If either player returns ahead of schedule, the Suns’ roster construction suddenly looks different.
Dillon Brooks put the cast back on his fractured left hand during contact drills after Suns morning shootaround. #Suns pic.twitter.com/ot1kSiocXb
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) March 12, 2026
Mark Williams without boot after Suns morning shootaround. #Suns pic.twitter.com/JXKrerQPly
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) March 12, 2026
Phoenix’s offense rarely disappears. Even during uneven stretches this season, the team has consistently generated efficient scoring through pace, spacing, and high-usage shot creators. The bigger concern has been the margins with defensive possessions that extend too long and rebounds that turn into second opportunities for opponents. That’s where Brooks and Williams matter.
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) against Suns forward Brooks (3) during an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Brooks provides something Phoenix has occasionally lacked on the perimeter with physical defensive pressure against top-scoring wings. His presence alone can shift matchups, allowing other defenders to stay within their natural roles. Williams, meanwhile, addresses a structural issue. When Phoenix lacks a true rim deterrent, opponents attack downhill more freely. Even a modest rim protection presence can change opponent shot selection.
Feb 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix center Williams (15) against the Boston Celtics in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For fans tracking the road trip, tonight’s game may simply be another checkpoint. But inside the organization, the focus could already be turning toward reinforcements. If Brooks and Williams are indeed ahead of schedule, Phoenix’s next phase might arrive sooner than expected.
For a team trying to tighten every edge before the postseason, timing can be everything.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
