PHOENIX — While the Phoenix Suns couldn’t come away with the win on Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers, one rookie made an impact in limited minutes.

Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) against Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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With five players on the injury report, the Suns had little choice but to dig deeper into their bench to keep pace. That included rookie center Khaman Maluach, who saw first-half action for the first time in his NBA career.

Maluach played 16 minutes in the loss and finished with seven points and seven rebounds, shooting 3 for 5 from the field — including his first career 3-pointer, which brought the Phoenix bench to its feet. His ability to stretch the floor while also contributing on the glass underscores his continued professional development.

“I think we see him even in his time at the Valley [Suns],” head coach Jordan Ott said postgame on Maluach’s development. “Our Valley does a really good job with laying out some intentions for him specifically each night.”

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In his time with the Valley Suns in the G League, Maluach is averaging 15.8 points and 12.5 rebounds while shooting 57.4% from the field.

Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) celebrates a three point shot against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Traditionally viewed as a rim protector, the rookie forced Portland’s defenders to respect him on the perimeter, opening driving lanes and creating cleaner looks for Phoenix’s guards. Maluach’s evolving range allows the Suns to maintain size defensively without sacrificing offensive flow.

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With injuries mounting and minutes available off the bench, Maluach’s ability to move within the flow of the game and make an impact on both ends of the floor provides a bright spot in his development. It also reinforces that his time in the G League has helped ease his transition to the NBA level.

Feb 19, 2026; Austin, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach (10) and San Antonio Spurs center Bismack Biyombo (18) battle for a loose ball during the second half at Moody Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

If Sunday was any indication, Maluach’s performance could serve as a preview of what’s to come in his career in Phoenix.

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“I think that’s helpful,” Ott said on his rookie reports from the Valley. “… It’s always good to see young guys take steps.”

Maluach and the Suns continue their homestand on Tuesday, Feb. 24, when they host the Boston Celtics at 7 p.m.

*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde