Suns rookie Khaman Maluach records first double-double in G League

Phoenix Suns rookie Khaman Maluach registered his first double-double in the G League on Sunday with the Valley Suns in a losing effort against the Stockton Kings.

Maluach produced 15 points, 14 rebounds and three blocked shots in the 123-105 loss at Mullett Arena in Tempe, Arizona. He finished by shooting 6-of-12 from the field in 25 minutes as the Suns dropped to 0-7 to begin the season.

The 10th pick did most of his work in the paint, from serving as a lob threat to overpowering the Kings' frontcourt. He also helped control the paint on the other end of the court with his size and length, blocking shots and altering several others.

Maluach has played sparingly to begin the season with Phoenix, totaling only 42 minutes across nine appearances. Suns coach Jordan Ott has opted to go with Mark Williams, Oso Ighodaro and Nick Richards for his center rotation, leaving Maluach out of the mix.

The 7-footer logged his third appearance in the G League on Sunday, averaging 10.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.7 blocks on 45.8% shooting from the field. He is one of 10 first-round picks this year to play at least one game in the G League.

Maluach was highly touted out of Duke because of his size, defensive potential and ability to work down low. With playing time limited, the team will continue to explore opportunities for him in the G League to maximize his development this season.

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Suns news: Khaman Maluach records first double-double in G League