Phoenix Suns fans ask why Rasheer Fleming isn’t playing much in series vs. OKC Thunder
PHOENIX — Throughout the Phoenix Suns’ playoff series towards the Oklahoma City Thunderone 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 courtroom throughout a sport towards the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
commercial
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 (Ighodaro Bear) 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 appeared for extra consistency off the bench, some consider Fleming might present a distinct look towards a dominant Thunder roster.
commercial
Fleming’s enchantment is his versatility, along with his size and defensive instincts. Those instruments disrupt passing lanes and contest photographs that would have confirmed priceless towards 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 towards 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 might have been useful. Even brief bursts of vitality can shift momentum in a playoff sport.
commercial
Fans voicing curiosity aren’t calling for a rotation overhaul, however somewhat a chance to see if Fleming might 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 towards 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 employees, however the dialog round his utilization — or lack thereof — this postseason will seemingly proceed lengthy after the series is over.
commercial
