The Phoenix Suns have dealt with various injuries throughout the 2025-26 NBA season. Ahead of their contest against the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, the Suns announced another unfortunate injury report.
Despite the setbacks, however, Phoenix has performed well and has exceeded expectations. Before the regular season started, no one thought the Suns would be performing the way they have been. They are in seventh place in the Western Conference with a 35-26 record.
While the injuries have affected them, they've found ways to stay competitive and outwork their opponents. Since they won't have their starting center for a while, it will probably be the same process before their game against the Bulls.
According to the Suns, Williams will miss at least two to three weeks due to a stress reaction in the third metatarsal of his left foot. The big man has been a significant part of the team's success. He's giving 11.6 points and 8.1 rebounds through 56 games.
During the team's media availability on Thursday, head coach Jordan Ott addressed Williams' injury.
“No. It just popped up. Yesterday, when he came in, day in between games, just had a little soreness. Went to have an image and you saw the news,” Ott said via Duane Rankin of AZ Central.
The coach also said that the injury surprised the team, since Williams spent most of his offseason conditioning and strengthening his body.
“I think that’s why it was all surprising for all of us,” Ott said. “There wasn’t a moment where you can see, visibly, that this is the result of it.
“And he’s had great health through the year… It’s tough, it’s tough for our group. So, you absolutely feel for him because of all the work that he’s done to get to his point and all the things that he did to contribute to where we’re at today.”
Mark Williams' Absence Opens an Opportunity for the Younger Players
Williams' absence could give Oso Ighodaro more playing time. The second-year big man has been a reliable backup center, averaging 5.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists.
Another big man who could benefit from Williams' absence is rookie center Khaman Maluach. The South Sudanese big man has only played 26 games this season and spent most of his time in the G League.
On Thursday, Maluach told Rankin he's getting ready, whether he plays or not. The former Duke center knows that he can bring the energy with his defense and presence.
