Khaman Maluach’s first career start earns ‘valuable’ Devin Booker endorsement

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Khaman Maluach’s first career start earns ‘valuable’ Devin Booker endorsement

Hayden Cilley, ClutchPoints · ClutchPoints

Thu, Apr 9, 2026 ·

3 min read

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PHOENIX– Wednesday marked a new journey for Khaman Maluach , as the Phoenix Suns rookie big man got his first-ever career start. No one was surprised by his production, posting four points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks.

Ever since the Suns drafted Maluach , he's always caught Devin Booker 's eye. The latter has continually talked about his communication, being a sponge, and making the most of every opportunity.

It wasn't just his statistical box score that had everybody wowed. There was one play in particular where he blocked former Duke teammate Cooper Flagg on a dunk attempt.

The Phoenix big man had words for Flagg afterwards, and it was a mix of healthy competition. As reported by AZCentral's Duane Rankin, the block was a culmination of when the two spoke pregame.

"Before the game, he was saying, 'I'm going to dunk on you," Maluach explained via Rankin on X (formerly Twitter). Afterwards, he said that he told Flagg, "Give me that ball," when he was on the ground.

The fun-loving, jovial personality of the rookie is underscored by a competitive drive that aligns harmoniously with the Suns' mission.

With the play-in position locked and rest being imminent, it might give Maluach more reps as a starter. If he maximizes the opportunity, it might be worth asking if he'll take the reins as the No. 2 center on the depth chart.

Khaman Maluach had Devin Booker and the Suns hyped

The 112-107 win over the Dallas Mavericks inside the Mortgage Matchup Center proved his value, and then some. Although Devin Booker has seen it all season, Wednesday was a bit of a surprise.

For 30 minutes, Maluach was a disruptor, sending back three shots and daring teams to attack the paint. Also, the career-high 14 rebounds were an added plus for a Phoenix team struggling on that side.

The starting nod was a byproduct of the consistent hard work, and it all came to fruition.

"Everything comes to light," Booker elaborated after the win. "We obviously, behind the scenes, have been seeing it since training camp. He has the right head on his shoulders, and I've been saying his willingness to learn the right questions that he asked.

"Just his vocal communication throughout the whole season, when he's been in the rotation, when he's not, he's one of the loudest on the team. With him being the anchor of our defense, which you've seen tonight, that's super valuable."

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