Predictions
30 November, 2025
Stephen A. Smith has shared his thoughts on the Phoenix Suns’ recent draft night decisions, specifically regarding their acquisition of center Khaman Maluach and the trade for fellow center Mark Williams. Smith questioned, “What on earth are the Phoenix Suns doing?” as the team continued its active trading spree that began with the deal involving Kevin Durant over the weekend.
On draft night, the Suns executed a deal sending their No. 29 pick along with a first-round selection in 2029 to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for the towering 7-foot center Mark Williams, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. This future pick is expected to be the least favorable among the first-round selections of Cleveland, Utah, and Minnesota, with protections in place for the top five picks.
Additionally, the Suns are set to welcome another big man, Khaman Maluach, who was selected by the Houston Rockets at No. 10. Maluach will be joining the Suns alongside Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and five second-round picks as part of the Durant trade.
As for the Williams trade, the Hornets are acquiring Vasilije Micic, who was previously traded to Phoenix in February during the Jusuf Nurkic deal. Phoenix plans to exercise Micic’s $8.1 million team option. Meanwhile, the Hornets utilized their No. 29 pick to draft guard Liam McNeeley from UConn.
Maluach, a promising 18-year-old, made a significant impact at Duke, averaging 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks while starting all 39 games and helping lead the Blue Devils to the Final Four. Williams, also a Duke alumnus, averaged 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds last season, marking his third year in the league after being selected No. 15 by Charlotte in 2022.
Overwhelmed with emotion after being drafted, Maluach expressed his excitement about joining the Suns, stating, “I’m excited to put on the Phoenix jersey that has my name, that has ‘Maluach’ on the back.” He looks forward to learning from Williams, recognizing the experience the seasoned player brings to the team.
The Williams deal comes on the heels of a previous trade to the Los Angeles Lakers that was rescinded due to a failed physical. Injuries have hindered Williams’ career, limiting him to just 44 games last season, which was a personal best. With a contract extension on the horizon, both Maluach and Williams are tasked with strengthening the Suns’ front line, an area that struggled in the last season, finishing 27th in defensive rating.
New head coach Jordan Ott, who previously served as an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers, will be looking to replicate his success in improving defensive ratings with the help of both players.
The Suns’ aggressive strategy in the draft and trades highlights their commitment to building a competitive team. The addition of experienced players alongside promising rookies could reshape their dynamics moving forward, emphasizing a focus on defensive strength in the upcoming season.
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