The Phoenix Suns have decided to fire coach Frank Vogel after a disappointing NBA season.
The Phoenix Suns have fired coach Frank Vogel after a disappointing season. This decision came less than two weeks after the team was eliminated from the first round of the NBA playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves without a single victory.
Frank Vogel led the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA championship in 2020. He was appointed head coach of the Phoenix Suns last summer with the hope of connecting the star trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Although the team had some impressive moments, Vogel’s coaching style did not seem to fit the team. This lack of chemistry makes it impossible for the Suns to maintain a consistent style of play.
Vogel also encountered many difficulties due to Bradley Beal’s injury, when this player was absent for most of the first half of the season. Even when they return, the Suns still face the problem of losing the ball and the reserve team lacks depth. Before the fourth match with the Timberwolves, Vogel still expressed optimism about the future, but after being eliminated, the team’s leadership had to come up with new plans.
Owner Mat Ishbia hasn’t been afraid to make big changes. He recruited Kevin Durant at the end of last season’s transfer window and fired coach Monty Williams before signing Beal. These drastic changes put a lot of pressure, and Frank Vogel’s failure was part of that testing process.
The Phoenix Suns will now be looking for their third coach in three seasons. Former Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, who defeated the Suns in the 2021 finals, is one of the potential candidates. The management hopes to find the right person who can bring stability and cohesion to the squad.
Although the past season was full of disappointment, players Kevin Durant and Devin Booker still hope to improve their performance this summer. Both will represent the US team at the Paris Olympics, where they will have the opportunity to train and regain their spirit.
CEO James Jones said: “We will continue to evaluate our operations and make the necessary changes to achieve our championship-caliber goals.”
Phoenix Suns need to create the right strategy, unite the trio of stars and a strong reserve to achieve their championship goal. The results of next season will depend on the ability to build effective plans and quickly adapt to the constantly changing situation in the NBA tournament.
