‘He’s special at 18’: Suns rookie Khaman Maluach is ready to bring his defensive presence to Phoenix

The Phoenix Suns introduced their 10th overall NBA draft pick, 7-foot-2 center Khaman Maluach, at a press conference in Scottsdale. General Manager Brian Gregory, who entered the offseason aiming to improve the team's poor rim protection, addressed this need by acquiring Maluach and center Mark Williams via trade.

Suns coach Jordan Ott expressed immediate positive impressions after two practices, highlighting Maluach's significant size and rim presence. Ott, drawing from his experience coaching strong rim protectors in Cleveland last season, stated that all options are open for utilizing Maluach and Williams together, suggesting the Suns may adopt a similar defensive strategy.

Gregory emphasized that Maluach was their top target in the draft, generating excitement when he became available at the 10th pick. The move directly addresses a critical weakness, as the Suns allowed the fourth-highest field goal percentage from close range last season, contributing to their 27th-ranked defense and losing record. Maluach represents a shift from last season's centers, none of whom fit the rim-protecting archetype Gregory sought.

Maluach is expected to make an immediate defensive impact, translating his shot-blocking prowess demonstrated at Duke (averaging 1.3 blocks per game in the ACC) to the NBA. He views defense as his key contribution regardless of offensive touches. His arrival signifies a fresh start and a potential shift in identity for the Suns, moving beyond the recent scoring-focused rosters built around Devin Booker, especially with Kevin Durant's departure.

Maluach's first chance to showcase his abilities for Suns fans will be during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, running from Friday through July 20. He is focused on embracing professionalism on and off the court.