The Phoenix Suns face injury trouble ahead of the new NBA season after young center Mark Williams suffered a torn labrum in his left shoulder during off-season training.
Bad news arrived from Arizona just before the start of training camp. Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams successfully underwent surgery on Thursday to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, but he now faces an extended recovery and a lengthy absence from the court, according to league insider Shams Charania.
Although the franchise has not yet released an official recovery timeline, he will miss an extended period of time, including training camp, the entire preseason, and the opening stretch of the regular season.
Williams joined the Suns in June 2025 via trade with Charlotte Hornets and re-signed with Phoenix on a three-year, $38 million contract. He played 60 games for the franchise last season, averaging 11.7 points and 8.0 rebounds per game.
Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams underwent surgery Thursday to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and will miss an extended period of time, sources tell ESPN. Williams suffered the injury in an offseason workout. pic.twitter.com/iXVlVVItv4
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 11, 2026
Ongoing injury woes delay development
For the talented 24-year-old center, this surgery marks the continuation of a frustrating stretch of health problems.
Since entering the league, Williams has repeatedly showcased his high-impact ability as an elite “pick-and-roll” finisher and top-tier shot-blocker. However, persistent injuries continue to break his rhythm and delay his full development on the floor. This concerning trend was highlighted when a past trade to the Los Angeles Lakers was rescinded due to lingering health concerns and a failed physical.