Overview
- Phoenix will juggle four options at center — Mark Williams, Nick Richards, Oso Ighodaro and rookie Khaman Maluach — with no fixed pecking order.
- Ott described the approach as matchup-driven and performance-based, emphasizing who most impacts winning in each game.
- Williams did not play in preseason but has progressed to full 5-on-5 work and said he has not received a rookie extension.
- Maluach has impressed the staff with energy, size and communication, positioning the rookie to compete for real minutes.
- The Sporting News reports Richards as the most likely trade candidate, with the Celtics viewed as a potential suitor given his expiring $5 million deal and Boston’s thin center depth.