Rookie center Khaman Maluach has been named in the Phoenix Suns’ starting lineup for their game against the Dallas Mavericks.
The game takes place at Mortgage Matchup Center on Wednesday. The 7-foot-1 Maluach, who came from Duke, is making his first NBA start.
Maluach’s Opportunity Due to Injury
Mark Williams is sitting out the game, which is the second night of a back-to-back. Rather than bring Oso Ighodaro off the bench, the Suns have opted to give Maluach a chance.
Maluach received his longest NBA opportunity in March when Williams missed most of the month with a foot injury.
From March 5-30, the rookie averaged 14.3 minutes per game. During that period, he contributed 4.4 rebounds (1.6 offensive), 1.1 blocks and 4.6 points per game.
Since Williams returned, Maluach has hardly featured in the three games played.
Suns’ Play-In Spot and Recent Form
The Suns have already clinched a spot in the play-in tournament. They are currently holding off the Los Angeles Clippers for the seventh seed.
Phoenix entered Wednesday two games ahead of Los Angeles with three to play, and the division record tiebreaker still undetermined.
In a 119-105 loss to the Houston Rockets on Tuesday, rebounding was a major issue for the Suns. The Rockets grabbed 24 offensive boards and out-rebounded the Suns 55-34.
Starting Lineups
Maluach entered the lineup alongside Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks, Jordan Goodwin and Jalen Green.
The Mavericks rolled out a starting five of Cooper Flagg, Khris Middleton, Marvin Bagley III, Max Christie and Ryan Nembhard.
The game will air on 98.7 and the Arizona Sports app at 7 p.m. MST on Wednesday night.