Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams is sidelined after surgery for a torn labrum, a brutal blow that makes his status for the 2026-27 NBA season start totally unclear. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Williams went under the knife to repair an injury suffered during an offseason workout, and while there’s no official timeline, he’s expected to miss an extended period of time. Talk about a gut punch before camp even starts.
Another Season, Another Injury for Williams?
This isn’t just bad luck; injuries have been a real problem throughout Williams’ career. His 60 games played in 2025-26 were actually his most in a single season, which tells you everything you need to know, especially when he’d played a measly 106 games combined over the three previous years. Remember that February 2025 trade from the Charlotte Hornets to the Lakers? It was rescinded because the Lakers’ doctors flagged long-term health concerns after Williams’ physical. The Suns went ahead and acquired him in June 2025 from the Hornets, sending a 2029 first-round pick back to Charlotte. You just gotta wonder about that gamble now, right?
Maluach Steps Up After $38 Million Investment
This latest injury comes just over two months after Williams inked a three-year, $38 million contract extension with the Suns. He was set to be their starting center, rounding out a promising starting five alongside Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green, and the recently-acquired Miles Bridges. With Williams out, it’s Khaman Maluach, the No. 10 overall pick from the 2025 NBA draft, who figures to be in line for a much bigger role. Maluach played sparingly as a rookie, averaging 3.0 points and 2.9 rebounds in 46 appearances, so this is his chance to prove he’s ready for prime time.
The Suns are scheduled to report to training camp on September 29. They will begin the regular season against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 21. All eyes will be on Maluach; he’s gotta step up if the Suns want to stay on track.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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