PHOENIX – After just getting back Jalen Green and Devin Booker into the lineup, the Phoenix Suns will have another starter sidelined at minimum for the next two weeks. Before Thursday’s matchup against the Chicago Bulls, Phoenix announced that center Mark Williams will be out for two-three weeks do to a stress reaction to his third metatarsal in left foot. The injury likely happened in Tuesday’s game vs. the Sacramento Kings, after Williams only played 22 minutes.
Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (15) against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Williams missing significant time for the first time this season:
Before the announcement, Williams was having the healthiest season of his career. In the first three seasons of his career, the 24-year-old missed 148 games due to injury and had only missed five games before Thursday. His numbers are down from last year, averaging 11.6 points and 8.1 rebounds, but the greatest addition to his games has been the improvement health-wise.
Feb 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (15) against the Boston Celtics in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
If everything goes well and Williams only misses two weeks, a return could be Saturday, March 21st at home vs. the Milwaukee Bucks. Eight games remain before that Milwaukee game, including a six-game road trip. During that stretch, Phoenix faces off against four playoff teams, including second-seeded Boston Celtics and San Antonio Spurs.
The road trip evens out a recent home stand that has had the Suns play at Mortgage Matchup Center in 15 of the last 19 games. In the final 18 games, Phoenix plays 12 on the road. To survive this road heavy road trip, the Suns will need their big man in Williams to come back even stronger from this recent foot injury.
Mark Williams ruled out as Phoenix Suns remain massive favorites against Bulls on Thursday
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
