Khaman Maluach earns most improved sophomore this Summer League by ESPN’s Golliver

Phoenix Suns big man Khaman Maluach’s Summer League efforts didn’t go unnoticed.

ESPN’s Ben Golliver listed the young Sun as the most improved sophomore in his 10 Summer League superlatives published Monday.

The Duke product was very comfortable handling all of his defensive responsibilities: blocking shots at the rim, challenging drivers in the paint and stepping out at times to defend in space. Maluach, who led summer league in rebounding, also served as a multidimensional offensive weapon. In addition to a steady stream of paint scoring, he regularly launched corner 3-pointers and finished 8-20 (40%) from beyond the arc for the tournament.

Maluach finished his Summer League run in Las Vegas averaging 19.5 points, 12.8 rebounds and 2.0 blocks across four games.

He was named to the NBA All-Summer League Second Team for his efforts.

Golliver added Maluach looked like the best center in Summer League. That’s good news for a player looking to take on a bigger role.

Maluach is coming off a rookie season where he averaged 3.0 points per game on 53.3% shooting in 46 games (one start). He added 2.9 rebounds and 0.7 blocks in 8.9 minutes per game.

The big man entered Summer League prep with more confidence and flashed his leadership.

Maluach could be headed for a larger role this season, though it won’t come without some competition.

Veteran center Mark Williams is back with the team after re-signing this offseason. Oso Ighodaro is coming off a much-improved Year 2.

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