The Phoenix Suns entered the 2023-24 NBA season with high hopes after assembling a roster featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, along with coach Frank Vogel. However, despite the star power, the Suns were swept in the first round of the playoffs, leading to Vogel being fired after just one season. General manager James Jones stated that after a review of the season, it was determined that a different head coach was needed for the team. Mike Budenholzer, who led the Milwaukee Bucks to a championship in 2021, was reported as a potential candidate to replace Vogel.
During the season, the Suns finished with a 49-33 record and entered the postseason as the sixth seed. Vogel had signed a five-year deal with the Suns in June of that year, following the team’s parting ways with Monty Williams after a loss in the Western Conference semifinals. Despite the early playoff exit, Vogel had expressed confidence in being retained for the following season, stating that he had the full support of team owner Matt Ishbia. Vogel’s previous coaching experience includes stints with the Indiana Pacers, Orlando Magic, and Los Angeles Lakers.
The next coach for the Suns will likely work closely with Jones and the front office to navigate the team’s hefty payroll, which stands at $209 million, the highest in the league. It is expected that the organization will need to make some moves during the offseason to reduce their payroll and luxury tax bills. This restructuring could involve trading key players to create a more financially sustainable roster while also aiming to build a championship-contending team. Keeping in mind the talent and potential of players like Durant, Booker, and Beal, the Suns will be looking to find the right coach to lead them in their pursuit of postseason success.
The firing of Vogel marked a significant change for the Suns, who had high expectations coming into the season with a star-studded lineup. Despite the disappointment of the early playoff exit, the organization is committed to making the necessary changes to put themselves in a position to compete at the highest level. Bringing in a new head coach, such as Budenholzer, who has a championship pedigree, could potentially provide the Suns with the coaching leadership needed to take them to the next level. With a talented roster and a focus on financial restructuring, the Suns are poised to make moves to strengthen their position in the highly competitive NBA landscape.
As the Suns undergo changes in coaching and potentially in the roster, the team will be looking to maximize the talents of players like Durant and Booker. The goal for the organization is to build a team that can effectively compete for an NBA championship, and this will require strategic decision-making both on and off the court. With a new coach on the horizon and a commitment to financial sustainability, the Suns are positioned to make the necessary adjustments to improve their chances of success in the upcoming seasons. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the Suns navigate these changes and strive to reach their ultimate goal of becoming champions in the NBA.
