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Two days until opening night, and the intriguing roster battle for the Phoenix Suns continues. That is, of course, involving Khaman Maluach and Oso Ighodaro at the center position, according to head coach Jordan Ott.
The entire team remains focused on it not being a competition of who will be the full-time starter. Rather, they view it as a matchup-based decision.
Following Monday’s practice, Ott once again echoed that same feeling. He said that Phoenix will need “48 minutes” from that specific position, per AZCentral’s Duane Rankin.
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It’s arguably the most important position on the floor for this squad. However, both Maluach and Ighodaro are two completely different play styles. Yet, that’s likely the main reason why there isn’t a clear starter.
Jordan Ott has an interesting decision to make
His decision will likely be sticking with the matchup-based strategy, and it makes sense. Looking at both Maluach and Ighodaro, as said earlier, they’re so different, which can really throw teams off.
The second-year big man from Duke is arguably one of the more physically gifted players at his position. The 7’6 wingspan with a 9’6 standing reach are only some of those attributes.
Maluach is more of the traditional interior big man. The shot-blocking, improved perimeter game, and constant energy are part of what makes the sophomore center so special.
On the flip side, Ighodaro plays towards the perimeter. He’s a quality playmaker who can handle the ball, switch through multiple positions on defense, and has some underrated athleticism.
For the bigger teams like San Antonio, Oklahoma City, and even Portland, Maluach might be the answer. For some of the smaller teams like Charlotte or even Golden State, Ighodaro could be it.
Either way, if the matchup-based approach works and it leads to wins, Ott will likely keep that throughout the entire season.
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