PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns received mixed injury news ahead of Saturday’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors, and both updates could have implications beyond one early-season game. Suns coach Jordan Ott said Oso Ighodaro will miss Saturday’s game after being diagnosed with an oblique strain, per AZCentral’s Duane Rankin. Ott did not know whether the injury was related to Ighodaro’s previous hip issue.
Suns coach Jordan Ott said Oso Ighodaro will miss Saturday’s game as he was diagnosed with an oblique strain.
When asked if the injury is related to the hip, Ott said he’s not a doctor.
Added Luke Kennard (knee) practiced today, trending in right direction. #Suns
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) October 23, 2026
Meanwhile, Luke Kennard practiced Friday after dealing with a knee injury during the preseason and appears to be trending in the right direction. Kennard’s progress could become significant for a Phoenix offense that could use another reliable perimeter threat. His shooting has historically forced defenses to respect him beyond the arc, potentially creating additional space for the Suns’ primary scorers.
Oct 21, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija (8) is fouled during the first half against Phoenix Suns forward Oso Ighodaro (11) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
But Ighodaro’s absence presents a different challenge. Without him, Phoenix could be forced to lean more heavily on rookie Khaman Maluach and newcomer Drew Timme. Maluach brings intriguing size and long-term upside, but remains raw as he adjusts to the speed and physicality of the NBA. That makes Ighodaro’s health particularly important. Early-season injuries are rarely reason for panic, but they can expose roster strengths and weaknesses much earlier than expected. Phoenix now gets an immediate look at whether its young frontcourt can survive when its rotation is disrupted.
Oct 10, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Luke Kennard (8) drives on San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes (40) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
For Suns fans, Saturday could therefore offer more than another result in the standings. Kennard’s potential return could show how dangerous Phoenix’s spacing can become at full strength, while Ighodaro’s absence provides Maluach and Timme an opportunity to prove the Suns have enough depth to withstand injuries. It is an early test, but one that could reveal plenty about Phoenix’s roster construction.
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
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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
