Former Duke top-10 pick eyes 2026 NBA Summer League MVP

Former Duke center Khaman Maluach has come in to his own this summer for the Phoenix Suns, dominating in every regard at the 2026 NBA Summer League tournament. That dominance continued Wednesday evening, as the No. 10 overall pick in 2025 scored 23 points to go along with 15 rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal.

Now, through four summer league games, Maluach is averaging a double-double with 19.5 points and 12.7 rebounds while shooting 40% from beyond the arc. When asked if he was too good to continue playing in summer league games, Maluach showcased a winning mentality and a desire to learn, saying, “I don’t think there’s such a thing as too good. Even great players like LeBron James, they still have more to learn, so I don’t think there’s such a thing like that.”

Through Phoenix’ first four games, they finished with a 3-1 record, meaning their status for the semifinals remains in jeopardy. Although the Suns are currently ranked fourth in the standings with a point differential of +3.8, they may be passed by teams playing Thursday or Friday. Only the top four teams advance to a win-or-go-home semifinal.

If the Suns are able to hold on to the fourth and final spot, Maluach can certainly prove his case for the NBA Summer League MVP.

This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Former Duke top-10 pick eyes 2026 NBA Summer League MVP