For all the roster changes the Phoenix Suns made during the 2025 offseason, one move might have flown under the radar: trading for Mark Williams. After acquiring Williams on draft night, the decision initially seemed puzzling. The Suns had just selected another young center, Khaman Maluach, with the No. 10 overall pick. Plus, the team already had Nick Richards and Oso Ighodaro on the roster as centers.
Still, Williams might be the best player among them. He perfectly fits what Phoenix wants to do on both ends of the floor. The Suns aim to attack downhill and push the pace in transition while establishing a strong defensive identity. Williams’s physicality, defensive awareness, and youthful energy bring a much-needed element to the roster.
### Addressing the Center Position Struggles
While the Suns struggled to find a legitimate center during the 2024-25 season, the situation looks much improved this year. Although the team is still determining the rotation at center, the lineup might be set sooner than expected. Mark Williams gives Phoenix a true lob threat, a presence they have lacked since Jusuf Nurkic.
### A True Lob Threat in the Paint
Since Nurkic, the Suns haven’t had a dominant presence inside. Nurkic played more with finesse, relying on footwork and face-up moves. Williams, on the other hand, is not afraid to get physical in the paint. His athleticism allows him to execute drop-steps, spin moves, and quick twitch movements around the basket.
Arguably most importantly, Williams is a lob threat—something the Suns haven’t enjoyed since Deandre Ayton. And unlike Ayton, Williams boasts superior athleticism.
During the Suns’ media day, Jalen Green expressed excitement about playing alongside the former Hornets center. He mentioned that he’s never had a big man capable of getting downhill with him in transition before. This sentiment was shared by Devin Booker and echoed throughout the organization. Williams is someone the team genuinely wants on their roster because he checks all the boxes.
### The Biggest Question: Can Mark Williams Stay Healthy?
The one remaining question on everyone’s mind is whether Williams can stay healthy. He did not participate in any preseason games or 5-on-5 action during training camp, raising immediate concerns. However, head coach Jordan Ott has downplayed these worries, highlighting the development program designed for Williams since his arrival.
Fast forward to two days before the regular season tip-off, and Williams is trending positively. He has participated in full-speed 5-on-5 drills and has even taken the ball up the court on occasion, acting as the primary ball handler. With elite guards like Booker and Green on the team, his skill set is expected to grow, and he’ll find easier scoring opportunities simply by being in the right spots on the floor.
### Rookie Contract Extension Status: Motivation to Stay on the Floor
Another potential motivating factor for Williams is his rookie contract extension situation. During a practice availability session on Monday, Williams revealed that he has not yet received a rookie contract extension. Despite this, he remains unfazed.
“I’ll just let my game take care of itself. Just focus on basketball, just focus on the team, and having a really good year,” he said.
While this mindset reflects maturity and focus, the financial aspect likely still looms in the back of his mind. The top four players from the 2022 NBA Draft class—the same year Williams was drafted—all secured rookie contract extensions, but Williams has yet to do so.
Tying this back to his health, staying consistently on the court could be the biggest hurdle he needs to clear. If Williams can remain healthy, it won’t only elevate the Suns’ chances this season but also significantly benefit his career.
### A Win-Win Situation
Ultimately, this scenario stands to be a win-win for both parties. If Mark Williams can suit up consistently throughout the 2025-26 NBA season, the Suns will gain the formidable center presence they’ve been seeking, and Williams will solidify his role—and earning potential—in the league.
The Phoenix Suns are hopeful that Williams is the key piece to unlocking a new era of success at the center position.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/phoenix-suns/suns-x-factor-heading-2025-26-nba-season