PHOENIX – One of the biggest issues heading into the 2026-27 season for the Phoenix Suns is that they need an answer at center; they are just waiting to decide what that answer looks like. With Mark Williams expected to miss several months following shoulder surgery, head coach Jordan Ott enters training camp with Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach competing for an opportunity to fill the void.
Dec 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) against the Los Angeles Lakers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Jordan Ott shares who will be the starting Center for the @Suns as the first day of training camp gets underway tomorrow.#NBA #Suns pic.twitter.com/HihnoN5wxS
— Ben Bliklen (@benbliklen) September 28, 2026
Ott made it clear that both players will have opportunities, and the competition could remain fluid throughout the season. That could be more important than simply determining who walks onto the floor as the starter on opening night. Ighodaro brings familiarity. He played all 82 games last season and has already earned experience within Ott’s system. Maluach represents something different. The 2025 first-round pick has the physical tools and upside that made him a lottery selection, but Phoenix also understands that he is still developing. His Summer League performance showed why the organization is excited, and that creates an intriguing situation for the Suns.
Jan 19, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Oso Ighodaro (11) vies for position against Brooklyn Nets forward Danny Wolf (2) (obscured) during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Mark Williams’ injury opens the door for more opportunities for Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach.@Suns GM Brian Gregory explains what’s next for the two young bigs:#NBA #PhoenixSuns pic.twitter.com/xVlvJl3IuW
— Ben Bliklen (@benbliklen) September 28, 2026
Ighodaro could make sense initially because of his experience and understanding of the team. But if Maluach begins turning his potential into consistent NBA production, the hierarchy could change quickly. That’s exactly why Ott’s approach matters. Phoenix doesn’t have to decide what Maluach will become tomorrow. It can give both players meaningful opportunities and let their performances determine who earns the larger role. For Suns fans, the question isn’t only who starts, it’s whether Phoenix has discovered its next long-term answer at center. Training camp begins that evaluation; the season will decide where it leads.
Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) against Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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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
