The Phoenix Suns opened their 2026-27 training camp on September 29, aiming to build on a surprising playoff run. Their season ended last April with a 122-131 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 28, a defeat that capped a tough final stretch. The team now integrates new faces while managing a significant injury to their starting center.
The Suns return the core from a 2025-26 squad that made the playoffs. They were active this offseason, acquiring forward Miles Bridges in a trade for Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale and a 2033 first-round pick. Sharpshooter Luke Kennard also joins the perimeter rotation. First-round draft pick Koa Peat, a local product from Perry High and the University of Arizona, adds youthful talent.
A major setback occurred when projected starting center Mark Williams suffered an offseason shoulder injury. He required surgery and will miss a large chunk of the season. This opens the door for second-year seven-footer Khaman Maluach to earn major minutes. Reliable backup big man Oso Ighodaro provides depth in the frontcourt.
The Suns' playoff exit was part of a difficult closing sequence.
You can review the full season schedule and results on our schedule page.
Training camp in Phoenix is about answering that exact question. With Bridges and Kennard, the offense gets more versatile scoring and shooting. The big question is in the paint without Williams. Maluach's development becomes a key storyline for the team's interior defense and rebounding.
The regular season tips off on October 21 with a road game against the Portland Trail Blazers. The home opener at Footprint Center is set for October 24 against the Golden State Warriors. The Suns' ability to weather Williams' absence early could define their playoff positioning. Their performance will hinge on how quickly the new pieces fit alongside stars like Devin Booker and the returning rotation.
Fans are debating the team's potential win total. The Suns surprised people last year. Now, with higher expectations, the challenge is to prove that playoff appearance was a stepping stone, not a peak. The team's depth will be tested from opening night.
