PHOENIX — Throughout the Phoenix Suns’ playoff series in opposition to the Oklahoma City Thunder, one query grew amongst their fans: Where is Rasheer Fleming?
Apr 12, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns ahead Rasheer Fleming (20) runs down the court docket throughout a sport in opposition to the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
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When requested by Arizona Central’s Duane Rankin why the rookie hasn’t gotten these minutes, head coach Jordan Ott mentioned “every option is in there” every sport.
“All things are on the table. Game 1, we liked what we saw,” he mentioned. “Game 2, he got free a little bit, and last game, we tried to put our center (Oso Ighodaro) on him. That’s as much size as we have… Kind of gone through it all in our heads, and then when it unfolds, we try the best we can.”
That hasn’t been sufficient for Suns fans, who suppose there could also be one thing extra behind the scenes.
The rookie ahead has seen restricted minutes all through the series. As Phoenix has regarded for extra consistency off the bench, some imagine Fleming may present a distinct look in opposition to a dominant Thunder roster.
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Fleming’s enchantment is his versatility, together with his size and defensive instincts. Those instruments disrupt passing lanes and contest photographs that might have confirmed invaluable in opposition to an OKC crew that thrives on tempo and ball motion. Offensively, he brings vitality and a willingness to assault the glass, the place the Suns have struggled to generate second-chance alternatives.
Apr 2, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Phoenix Suns ahead Rasheer Fleming (20) on protection in opposition to Charlotte Hornets guard Coby White (3) throughout the second quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Throughout the series, Phoenix has confronted points with defensive consistency and bench manufacturing, two areas the place Fleming’s ability set may have been useful. Even brief bursts of vitality can shift momentum in a playoff sport.
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Fans voicing curiosity aren’t calling for a rotation overhaul, however fairly a possibility to see if Fleming may present a lift. In a series the place OKC has taken management, fans simply need their crew to achieve success.
Mar 31, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Phoenix Suns ahead Rasheer Fleming (20) goes to the basket in opposition to Orlando Magic guard Jett Howard (13) throughout the second quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
Why Fleming hasn’t seen much time on the ground is between the participant and training workers, however the dialog round his utilization — or lack thereof — this postseason will possible proceed lengthy after the series is over.
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