Suns fire Frank Vogel, targets coach Budenholzer
In a stunning announcement made on Thursday, the Phoenix Suns have opted to part ways with head coach Frank Vogel. This decision comes in the aftermath of a disappointing season for the Suns, who harbored aspirations of contending for the NBA championship but were instead eliminated in the opening round of the playoffs, suffering a clean sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, a team that hadn't clinched a playoff series victory in two decades. Vogel's stint in Phoenix lasted only a single season.
"After a thoughtful review of the season, we concluded that we needed a different head coach for our team. We appreciate Frank's hard work and commitment," stated Suns' General Manager James Jones in a released statement. "We are here to win a championship and last season was way below our expectations. We will continue to evaluate our operation and make the necessary changes to reach our championship-caliber goals. We all take accountability, and it's my job, along with Josh and ownership, to build a championship team."
Vogel was brought onboard amid considerable anticipation last summer, tasked with spearheading the Suns' star-studded trio comprising Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. While the trio showcased glimpses of brilliance, they failed to establish cohesion throughout the season.
Beal's absence due to injury during a substantial portion of the initial season exacerbated the team's challenges. Even upon his return, the Suns grappled with turnovers and a shallow bench. Ahead of Game 4 against the Timberwolves, Vogel expressed confidence in his tenure, citing full support from owner Mat Ishbia and anticipating a return for a second season. However, his hopes were dashed as he now finds himself without a job.
Throughout the season, Vogel's defensive-oriented coaching approach appeared incongruous with the Suns' offensive prowess, prompting speculation regarding his suitability for the role.
With Vogel's departure, the Suns are set to embark on their quest for a third head coach in as many seasons. Among the potential candidates, former Milwaukee Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, who led his team to victory against the Suns in the 2021 Finals, stands out.
"We remain steadfast in our pursuit of a championship, and last season's performance fell substantially short of our expectations," remarked Jones. "We will persist in evaluating our operations and implementing requisite alterations to align with our championship objectives. We all acknowledge our responsibility, and it is incumbent upon us, in conjunction with Josh and ownership, to construct a championship-caliber team."
Jones faces constraints imposed by the league's salary cap, limiting roster maneuverability unless significant changes are effected. Notably, Durant, Booker, and Beal command substantial salaries, while Grayson Allen recently inked a lucrative $70 million, four-year extension.
The Suns concluded the regular season with a commendable 49-33 record, securing the No. 6 seed and narrowly sidestepping the play-in tournament.
Vogel departs the Suns with a coaching record of 480-422 amassed over 12 seasons across stints with the Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Suns.
