The Phoenix Suns have formally parted company with head coach Frank Vogel after just one season, as announced by the team on Thursday.
His dismissal follows a week after Suns owner Mat Ishbia and General Manager James Jones held their post-season media session, where they indicated that this week would be dedicated to assessing the highs and lows of the 2023-24 season and making tough decisions for the future.
Vogel’s departure marks the first significant change. The Suns’ elimination in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves was swiftly followed by reports of discontent among certain players regarding his offensive strategies.
Given that the team’s core remains intact for the next season with their key players under long-term contracts, perhaps the decision was inevitable. The front office recognized the need for change, and replacing the coach seemed a more straightforward process than overhauling a roster already constrained by substantial salaries and league regulations.
Despite having four years remaining on his contract, Vogel guided the Suns to a 49-33 record and secured the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Considering Phoenix’s late start due to injury woes until December, Vogel appeared to have maximized the team’s potential with the circumstances he faced.
Throughout the latter half of the regular season, the Suns posted a commendable 34-18 record and ranked among the top 10 in both offensive and defensive efficiency, boasting the seventh-highest point differential during that period.
However, these achievements weren’t sufficient to secure him a second term.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Suns are actively pursuing former Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer as Vogel’s replacement. This choice would reflect the franchise’s preference for championship experience and handling high-pressure situations.
Despite his tenure with Milwaukee ending unfavorably, Budenholzer has a track record of regular season success, particularly with star-studded rosters, evident from his impressive coaching record with the Bucks.
Wojnarowski also suggests that Budenholzer has been assembling his coaching staff for the upcoming season, regardless of his destination.
Notably, Budenholzer has roots in Arizona, having been raised in Holbrook, a town located a few hours outside of Phoenix.
Once the new coaching staff is finalized, a crucial offseason awaits. While the Suns face limitations, precision is imperative for the team’s advancement in the Western Conference standings.
For Devin Booker, the upcoming season will introduce his seventh head coach in his decade-long NBA career. Despite his consistency as an All-NBA caliber player, stability has eluded Booker during his time with the Suns, with frequent changes in coaching personnel and strategies.
The constant flux in coaching staff poses challenges for high-caliber players like Booker, disrupting their rhythm and development. It’s a scenario that underscores the complexities surrounding personnel changes and their impact on player dynamics.
Ultimately, the decision to part ways with Vogel could have been influenced by various factors, including the team’s performance and player alignment. As the Suns navigate through this transition, the collective goal remains clear: to capitalize on their championship aspirations before their window of opportunity closes.
