Phoenix Suns Facing Tough Decisions After Disappointing Season
As the Phoenix Suns conclude a turbulent 2024-2025 NBA season, reflection and strategizing for the future have become paramount for the franchise. After a promising run that saw them reach the NBA Finals in 2021, the recent campaign unraveled into disappointment, leading to significant organizational changes.
A Rocky Road to the Present
During a gripping moment in June 2020, Suns head coach Monty Williams famously declared, “We are not the Suns of old!” following an impressive 8-0 run in the Orlando bubble. His speech inspired the team and infused hope into a franchise mired in a decade-long playoff drought. However, both the expectations and the excitement have diminished dramatically since then.
After securing a playoff spot in subsequent seasons, the Suns’ 2024-2025 campaign ended in disarray. In a season marred by consecutive double-digit losses—including a staggering 38-point defeat to the Golden State Warriors—Coach Mike Budenholzer addressed the press, stating, “There’s no justification for this,” acknowledging the painful reality of their elimination from postseason contention.
Leadership Shakeup
In light of the team’s struggles, Budenholzer was dismissed from his position just one year into a lucrative five-year contract, marking a continuation of the franchise’s head coaching instability. The Suns have now cycled through four coaches in four seasons following owner Mat Ishbia’s acquisition of the team in early 2023. Meanwhile, General Manager James Jones, credited with building the Finals-bound roster, is also uncertain about his future with the team.
Strategy Moving Forward
Amid this turmoil, key decisions loom for the Suns as they wrestle with their $367 million roster, the second-most expensive in NBA history, and an absence of draft control for the next few years. Identifying the path to restoring success is critical, and already, foundational strategies are taking shape.
Commitment to Devin Booker
Franchise player Devin Booker remains central to the Suns’ future. As he navigates the challenges of leadership following Budenholzer’s departure, Booker, who recently emphasized the need to increase his “voice” within the team, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the new culture the Suns aim to establish. Despite the hurdles presented by their current financial situation, the Suns plan to offer Booker a substantial contract extension this summer.
Contemplating a Durant Trade
While Kevin Durant’s presence had a positive impact when he was on the court, with the team achieving a record of 33-29 in his 62 games this season, his future in Phoenix now hangs in the balance. The Suns’ substantial salary cap constraints mean that exploring trade options for Durant could be the most viable way to reshape the roster. Despite Durant expressing a desire to remain with the team, the Suns have reportedly gauged interest from various franchises, suggesting a potential trade may not be off the table.
The Search for Stability
Following the tumultuous firing of Budenholzer, the Suns are tasked with finding a coach who can not only lead effectively but can also cultivate a positive environment, which was reportedly lacking during Budenholzer’s tenure. The franchise is considering a range of candidates, prioritizing those who can engage with players and foster a culture of success.
Looking Ahead
As the Suns embark on this pivotal offseason, the focus will be on rebuilding a competitive team while navigating the challenges posed by their current roster and financial commitments. The upcoming decisions about coaching, player retention, and potential trades will be crucial in ensuring that this storied franchise can reclaim its place among the league’s elite.
