NEWSLETTER
The Phoenix Suns will look for their third head coach in three seasons.
According to multiple reports, Frank Vogel has officially been relieved of his duties. The organization made the call after just his first season with the franchise, where the team went 49-33.
Suns Search Begins
The Suns were also booted from the playoffs in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Anthony Edwards and Co. swept the veteran squad after a season that was full of high expectations. Indeed, arguably no franchise is more all-in than this group.
Phoenix traded for Bradley Beal during the offseason after making a gigantic move from Kevin Durant midway through the 2022-23 campaign. Throw in a third max player in Devin Booker, and the franchise has hamstrung itself with minimal spending power. Even worse, they gave up an arm and a leg to make the Durant deal happen, only further restricting their ability to trade for rotational support.
A championship-winning coach with the Los Angeles Lakers, the argument could easily be made that Vogel deserved a longer leash. At the same time, a four-game sweep in the first round for this roster is a true embarrassment, and it’s clear new owner Mat Ishbia isn’t messing around.
The Suns now join the Los Angeles Lakers in the search for a new leader. The Hornets were also interviewing candidates but reportedly hired well-respected assistant Charles Lee on Thursday morning. Mike Budenholzer will be a “prominent” part of the Suns’ search, per Woj, and he was also named as a prospect for the Lakers open position.
