Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (15) scores against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center.
Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
The Phoenix Suns don't begin the 2026-27 season until October 21 with a road contest against the Portland Trail Blazers. But it sounds like the club may be without Mark Williams, as the 24-year-old center is dealing with a shoulder injury.
Reports indicate that Williams recently underwent surgery on his left shoulder to repair a torn labrum he suffered during an offseason workout, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. There is no current timetable for return, as the soon-to-be fifth-year pro is said to be out for an extended amount of time.
“Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams underwent surgery Thursday to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and will miss an extended period of time, sources tell ESPN,” Charania reported. “Williams suffered the injury in an offseason workout.”
Article Continues Below
The average recovery timeline for labrum repair surgery can take anywhere between four to six months. That means the former first-round pick could be out until at least January, or even until about March. The Suns will likely be without Williams for a big portion of the season, which puts Phoenix in a hole at center.
Mark Williams' absence means that the Suns will likely have to rely on Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach in the post. Ighodaro is entering his third year in the NBA, while Maluach is entering his second. The front office may elect to sign a veteran to at least bring in some experience to the five spot for next season.
Williams played his first year with the Suns in the 2025-26 campaign after being traded to Phoenix from the Charlotte Hornets. He appeared in 60 games for the franchise, starting in 55, and averaged 11.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 0.9 blocks per game while shooting 64.4% from the field.