The Phoenix Suns opened camp with a detailed plan to protect center Mark Williams, whose NBA career has been curtailed by injuries, head coach Jordan Ott said on Saturday.
Williams, 23, played just 43, 19 and 44 games in three seasons with Charlotte before arriving in Phoenix through a draft-night trade. “We know Mark’s history and we’re trying to change it,” Ott explained, adding that Williams looked stronger when he reported on September 26. The club expects to restrict his minutes during its four preseason contests to keep him fresh for the regular schedule.
The Suns’ caution follows February’s episode in which the Los Angeles Lakers backed out of a deal for Williams after an undisclosed issue surfaced during his physical. Williams returned to the Hornets lineup once that trade collapsed.
Ott noted that Nick Richards, rookie Khaman Maluach and two-way signee Oso Ighodaro have taken most front-court reps early in camp, emphasizing that the distribution is part of the plan and not a reflection of Williams’ current condition.
Maluach earns praise despite rough Summer League
Although Maluach struggled in July, veteran guard Grayson Allen said the 19-year-old big man has impressed with his communication. “He talks nonstop on the court—calling out coverages, commanding the defense,” Allen observed. “For a rookie to do that on day one is impressive.”
Gillespie targets larger role
Second-year guard Collin Gillespie spent the offseason refining his jumper and decision-making. “Coach Ott told smaller guards like myself we have to shoot off the dribble, be efficient and protect the ball,” Gillespie said in a video posted by The Arizona Republic. “I worked on deeper range and reading the floor.”
Ishbia rejects discrimination lawsuits
During Wednesday’s media day, team governor Mat Ishbia dismissed five recent workplace discrimination suits filed against the Suns and the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury. Calling the allegations “ridiculous” and “a cash grab,” Ishbia said, “We don’t settle. If we don’t do anything wrong, I’m not paying someone.” ESPN earlier reported that employees were told in the spring to sign agreements limiting their ability to sue over workplace issues.
Source: Hoops Rumors
