The Phoenix Suns made a big decision by parting ways with head coach Frank Vogel. This move came after the team’s disappointing exit from the playoffs, where they were swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Now, the Suns are eyeing former Milwaukee Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer as Vogel’s replacement. Talks are underway, and it looks like things might move quickly in that direction.
James Jones, the Suns’ general manager, explained that after reviewing the season, they felt a change was needed in the coaching position. They appreciated Vogel’s efforts but believed a different direction was necessary. During Vogel’s time with the Suns, they didn’t quite live up to expectations, especially considering the talent they had on the team with stars like Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal.
Budenholzer is the Suns’ target and talks are expected to move quickly, sources tell ESPN. He’s been working to assemble a coaching staff for a return to a head coaching job and that process is also gathering momentum, sources said. https://t.co/PSWPi9C6Pr
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 9, 2024
Vogel was signed to a hefty contract in 2023, but his tenure ended after just one season. This decision comes after a string of playoff losses, marking the longest losing streak in franchise history. Before joining the Suns, Vogel had coaching stints with the Lakers, Magic, and Pacers. He’s had success in the past, notably leading the Pacers to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Now, the Suns are faced with some financial challenges. They have the highest payroll in the NBA and could face significant luxury tax penalties if they keep their core roster together. With offseason decisions looming, including coaching changes and financial considerations, the Suns are gearing up for a period of transition as they aim to improve for the future.
Frank Vogel Fell Short of Expectations
SHENZHEN, CHINA – OCTOBER 12: Head coach Frank Vogel of the Los Angeles Lakers speaks to #39 Dwight Howard during the match against the Brooklyn Nets during a preseason game as part of 2019 NBA Global Games China at Shenzhen Universiade Center on October 12, 2019 in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. (Photo by Zhong Zhi/Getty Images)
The Phoenix Suns have decided to part ways with head coach Frank Vogel, despite him being just one year into his five-year, $31 million contract. Vogel was brought in to replace Monty Williams after the team’s second-round playoff exit last year. Vogel, known for his defensive strategies that helped the Los Angeles Lakers win the 2020 NBA title, had the task of leading a new-look Suns team centered around stars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, who joined the team in a major trade.
Despite facing challenges like injuries to Beal and a lot of changes in the roster, Vogel managed to guide the Suns to 49 wins and the sixth seed in the tough Western Conference. However, they were overwhelmed by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs, exposing weaknesses in the Suns’ game.
During the playoffs, there were rumors about Vogel’s job security, but he maintained that he had the support of Suns owner Mat Ishbia. After their elimination, Booker and Durant hinted at internal issues within the team. Vogel expressed his disappointment after the Game 4 loss, describing getting swept in the playoffs as one of the worst feelings of his career.
