The Phoenix Suns opened their 2026-27 training camp on Tuesday, September 29, looking to build on a surprising playoff run last season. They'll do so without starting center Mark Williams, who is out long-term with a shoulder injury, and after a difficult end to their previous campaign that saw them lose four straight games, including a 122-131 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 28.
The Suns' 2025-26 season was a welcome surprise. After missing the playoffs the year before, they fought their way back into the postseason picture. That momentum is a key foundation for this year's group. Key players return, and the front office added significant pieces. Forward Miles Bridges arrives via a trade that sent Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale, and a 2033 first-round pick elsewhere. Sharpshooter Luke Kennard joins to space the floor, and first-round draft pick Koa Peat, a local product from Perry High and the University of Arizona, adds youthful talent.
Losing Mark Williams for a large chunk of the season is a major blow. He was the projected starting center and a defensive anchor. His absence forces a reshuffle in the frontcourt. Second-year player Khaman Maluach, a 7-footer, now has a clear path to significant minutes and must step up. Reliable backup Oso Ighodaro also returns and will see an increased role. The team's ability to protect the paint and rebound effectively will be tested early.
The Suns' playoff exit was a tough one, marked by a challenging series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Phoenix opens the new regular season on the road against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 21. Their home opener at Footprint Center comes just three days later on October 24, featuring a marquee matchup against the Golden State Warriors. Fans can track the full slate of games on our schedule page as the season progresses.
That's the big question facing this group. The roster has undeniable talent with Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, and the new additions. But integrating Bridges and Kennard while managing the center position without Williams presents an early challenge. The Western Conference is always brutal. Their performance will hinge on health, defensive consistency, and how quickly the new pieces gel. The optimism from last year's run is real, but so is the work required to repeat it. The season starts in just a few weeks, and all eyes will be on how this team responds.
