As training camp commences and the preseason tips off next week, one of the most anticipated position battles for the Phoenix Suns is at starting center. With Mark Williams expected to miss an extended period of time to begin the season, both Khaman Maluach and Oso Ighodaro will have an opportunity to compete for the starting role.
When asked at Media Day who would start, Jordan Ott tactfully dodged the question. And understandably so. Training camp should ultimately help determine who earns the opportunity,
and even then, it could remain a fluid situation depending on the opponent.
“These two centers battle every day. So they’ve already had eight weeks of doing that, we got to get them through the next three. I know it just will add to our competitive group, but I highly expect a competitive camp starting with those guys,” Ott said of Malauch and Ighodaro.
What makes this opportunity unique for third-year player Oso Ighodaro is what it could mean for him long-term financially. Ighodaro signed his initial four-year deal with Phoenix in July 2024, which makes him eligible for an extension beginning in 2027, with his extension window running through June 30, 2027. That gives the Suns an opportunity to negotiate a new deal before his current contract expires rather than waiting until he reaches free agency. Ighodaro wouldn’t hit restricted free agency until the summer of 2028, as Phoenix holds a $2.5 million team option for next season.
And there’s really no reason to expect the Suns to commit to a long-term deal at this juncture. They need to see what Ighodaro looks like in an expanded role and whether he can continue developing his game enough to justify whatever future investment they might consider.
Best-case scenario for Oso? The maximum framework available to him would be a four-year, $95 million extension, with a starting salary of roughly $22.5 million beginning in 2028–29.
Ultimately, the decision will come down to whether the Suns want to pay for Ighodaro’s projected development or retain flexibility and see how his role evolves. Ighodaro has already showcased his ability to be a productive NBA player. Now, entering his third season, he’ll have an opportunity to expand upon that and prove his long-term value to the organization. If he ever develops a jumper, that would certainly help.
Not bad for a player selected 40th overall. It speaks to the Suns’ ability to scout effectively and develop internally. But for that narrative to become fortified, the development needs to continue during this season of opportunity.
