Mason Plumlee and Oso Ighodaro have shown flashes, but recent struggles and successes reveal the Suns’ thin margin for error at a key position
Center of Attention: Suns’ Backup Bigs Shine and Stumble in Back-to-Back
The Phoenix Suns entered their back-to-back matchups with a glaring spotlight on their center rotation. In their first game, Mason Plumlee and rookie Oso Ighodaro impressed, stepping up admirably in a win against the Utah Jazz. But less than 24 hours later, both were exposed against the Sacramento Kings, facing All-NBA center Domantas Sabonis and his sturdy backup Trey Lyles.
It was a tale of two performances, and while the flashes of potential remain promising, cracks in the foundation of Phoenix’s big-man depth are becoming harder to ignore.
When it was good, it was great!
Oso Ighodaro with the best performance of his young NBA career in this W:
6 PTS on 3/5 FG, with 12 REB and 2 BLK as a +8.
He’s getting the opportunity, and he’s making the most of it. pic.twitter.com/mkPvkRjSgp
— Suns Are Better (@SunsAreBetter) November 13, 2024
Plumlee and Ighodaro: A Mixed Bag
Against the Jazz, Plumlee and Ighodaro looked like the perfect tandem. Plumlee was a double-double machine, controlling the boards and even knocking down free throws at an unusually respectable clip. Ighodaro brought his youthful energy, patrolling the paint and contributing defensively. Their combined play helped the Suns hold their own despite missing multiple stars.
But against Sacramento, reality struck. Plumlee struggled to keep up with Sabonis’ finesse and physicality, while Ighodaro’s lack of polish on offense became glaring. His push-shot and awkward three-point form in practice reminded everyone just how raw his game still is.
Together, they lacked the scoring punch to amplify their defensive grit to contend with elite competition. There were flashes and glimpses, but the Suns need large chunks.
A Weak Link in the Chain?
The Suns’ current roster construction thrives on star power and positional versatility, but the center position remains a potential Achilles’ heel. Plumlee brings a steady veteran presence but is limited offensively. Ighodaro, while promising, is a long-term project who might not be ready for significant minutes against top-tier bigs. Is it time to bring in a veteran center and send Oso to the G-League with our exciting Valley Suns?
Unfortunately, this shot needs a lot of work.
Jusuf Nurkić’s return bolsters the starting lineup, but his durability is a constant concern. In games like this, where opponents feature dominant centers, the Suns’ backup rotation feels underwhelming. Plumlee and Ighodaro can thrive in favorable matchups but are not yet reliable against the playoff-caliber competition.
Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
Looking Forward
This isn’t an overreaction—it’s an honest assessment of where the Suns stand. Injuries to key players like Durant, Beal, and Grayson Allen magnify the flaws, but even at full strength, Phoenix will need to address its depth at center—at the very least, take a look at what is working and what is not.
Does Bol Bol get a look here for a few weeks?
Whether through internal development, rotation adjustments, or exploring trade options, bolstering this spot could be crucial as the Suns look to keep a firm grip on their early winning record.
Plumlee and Ighodaro must learn from their highs and lows, growing through adversity. However, time and opportunity may be in short supply for a team with championship aspirations.
The Sun’s next game will be against the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team currently missing its top-tier bigs. We’ll keep an eye on how the depth at center develops in this one—Mason and Oso are fantastic to root for—so we can hope for good things and development to come through the season!