The Phoenix Suns are now two weeks away from opening up the 2026-27 regular season against the Portland Trail Blazers.

A turbulent, physical 82 games are on the doorstep of ensuing - this is setting the stage for second-year C Khaman Maluach to make the most of the circumstances surrounding the team heading into the season.

We take a dive into why the Duke product is an ideal late-round selection for those who participate in fantasy basketball.

While it's simply too early to depend on the 7-footer to be an immediate double-double threat this season (especially due to the likelihood of Oso Ighodaro starting), he still produces aptly in categories that matter. 

Maluach is already a threat to record a block, rebound or three-point make on virtually any possession while on the court. His growth when it comes to catching up to the speed of the game is becoming more evident as well, which makes him an ideal lob threat - particularly in transition.

The 19.5 points, 12+ rebounds, and 40% three-point conversion rate in Summer League play is a small taste of what the lottery pick can become, and it's simple to see this translating to the upcoming season to some degree.

There are definite risks in committing to the former five-star recruit, particularly in the potential for a role volatile. This isn't accounting for the anticipated return of incumbent starting center Mark Williams, either. 

However, the upside in investing this way is immense. The sheer value that Maluach can provide in even a 15-minute appearance during a game makes it worth a late-round flyer. 

There's also the chance that the 2025 #10 overall draft pick receives starts this season. Ighodaro is a player that is very durable, but there's an off-chance that he misses games over an 82-game grind. 

Beyond this, there are chances that Maluach is simply the better option to start, rendering head coach Jordan Ott to evaluate his starting unit based off the linear matchup.

Much will be discovered in the months ahead. This certainly isn't a call to action in the way of drafting Maluach early, but it is an advisement that taking a chance on a very talented player late has a chance to turn into a decision that wins a league.