The Phoenix Suns have returned to The Valley after a two-game trip to China in which they faced the Brooklyn Nets, and there was a lot to like about the way the team played there. They split the two games – with a win over the Los Angeles Lakers before that – with the atmosphere around the team being much better compared to what we’ve seen in recent years.
The Suns have one more game to go – against the Lakers – before the real fun begins, and it will be another chance for head coach Jordan Ott to see what he has with this group. It’s been nice to see him make use of the three starting players he has at his disposal – and in the case of center Khaman Maluach – the sooner he can contribute, the better.
Phoenix still has two lingering issues ahead of opening night.
Although not yet officially confirmed by the franchise, the Suns will have one – if not two – of their likely starting five unavailable when the regular season gets underway. Not an ideal situation as this is the year they will be trying plenty of combinations around Devin Booker, as well as creating a culture and identity in Phoenix.
The perfect birthday gift for teammates 🎁
Dillon and Book were asked about Labubu’s postgame 😂 pic.twitter.com/kto2TsEOgH
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) October 12, 2025
Starting with the more likely of the two to be available, and we still haven’t seen Jalen Green in action. This is a problem because Booker looks as comfortable as he ever has lining up his teammates from the point guard position, while Grayson Allen is once again positioned well next to him. Green is obviously the better player than Allen, but questions remain about the fit as long as he remains in place.
It would be great to see him play against the Lakers to get an idea of how this will all play out, but it’s unclear if that will happen. The word from Phoenix is Green is goal to be ready for opening nightbut hamstring injuries can be difficult to gauge and the organization won’t rush the best player they got for Kevin Durant after an injury.
Then there’s center Mark Williams, which is a much more depressing situation. Coach Ott spoke during his media availability before heading to China about how the former Charlotte Hornet had been training diligently throughout the offseason. But he didn’t say how much of that happened on the field, while he hasn’t appeared for the team so far either.
He won’t be a match for Los Angeles and he’s also less likely to be on opening night, which puts the team in a tough spot. Maluach have looked more comfortable and impressive defensively than could have realistically been hoped early on, although offensively it’s a different story. He’s as raw as they come, and while he’s willing, playing big minutes too early could backfire.
The Suns don’t want to undermine his confidence and expect too much from him now that Williams is out, although Nick Richards will also come on. What’s troubling, however, is that two of this offseason’s top three signings – both acquired via different types of trades – have already failed to take the field before ever playing an official game for the Suns.
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