The Phoenix Suns have a long-term plan for Mark Williams.
Taking Williams’ battles with multiple injuries into account, the Suns are working more on his strength than anything else so far in training camp.
“We know Mark’s history and we’re trying to change it,” Suns coach Jordan Ott said. “We’re taking an approach. He’s been out here and has been good. This is Sept. 26. Definitely added some strength to him. You can see it when he walks in the building. He definitely has great size. Excited to see where he goes, but we still do have a couple more weeks.”
Williams may see limited action in their four preseason games from Oct. 3 to Oct. 14. They play their regular season opener Oct. 22 against the Sacramento Kings at PHX Arena.
The 7-footer has played a total of 106 games in his three NBA seasons, with injuries ranging from his foot, back, knee, ankle and thumb. The Charlotte Hornets tried to deal Williams to the Los Angeles Lakers before the 2025 trade deadline, but the deal was rescinded after Williams failed a team physical.
“I don’t think anyone is thinking tomorrow is the games,” Ott said. “We have a practice tomorrow, not a game. Everything is going to be an intentional plan with whoever it is, young guys, veteran guys. He’s right on the plan. Keep staking days.”
The Suns concluded Day 2 of training camp on Friday, Sept. 26, seeing an increase in the competition.