The Phoenix Suns are willing to keep Mark Williams in the frontcourt mix this offseason, but the organization appears hesitant to commit long term as it prepares for a larger role for center Khaman Maluach.
According to Evan Sidery, the Suns are open to bringing Williams back on his one-year qualifying offer but are not currently pursuing a long-term contract with the 24-year-old restricted free agent. Sidery also reported that the Chicago Bulls are a team to monitor as a potential sign-and-trade destination for Williams.
Williams became a key part of Phoenix’s rotation during the 2025-26 season after arriving as a young interior presence. He averaged 11.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 0.9 blocks in 60 games, including 55 starts, while shooting 64.4% from the field in 23.6 minutes per game.
The former first-round pick’s efficiency came almost entirely from inside the arc. Williams attempted only one three-pointer all season and averaged 4.7 made baskets on 7.3 attempts per game, while also contributing 3.1 offensive rebounds per night. His ability to create second-chance opportunities helped a Phoenix team built around perimeter scoring.
The Suns finished the 2025-26 regular season with a 45-37 record, earning the seventh seed in the Western Conference and a spot in the Play-In Tournament. Their season ended in the first round after a 4-0 sweep against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Phoenix’s decision on Williams is tied closely to the development timeline of Maluach. The Suns selected the 19-year-old center with the No. 10 overall pick and gave him limited minutes during his rookie season, with Maluach averaging 3.0 points, 2.9 rebounds and 0.7 blocks in 46 games.
While Maluach was not yet a major contributor, his physical tools and long-term upside have created a path for him to eventually take over as Phoenix’s starting center. Sidery noted that the Suns will soon need to “unleash” Maluach in a larger role, which explains the reluctance to make a major long-term investment in Williams.
A short-term return would allow Phoenix to maintain frontcourt stability while giving Maluach time to develop. Williams would also provide a reliable interior option alongside a roster led by Devin Booker, who averaged 26.1 points and 6.0 assists in 2025-26.
