Is Job Of Frank Vogel Safe? Suns Ponder Coaching Staff Reshuffle
The Phoenix Suns had a letdown in the 2023-24 season with a star trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, resulting in a first-round sweep in the Western Conference Playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves. This has sparked rumors that head coach Frank Vogel is, or should be, under pressure. However, NBA journalist Marc Stein mentioned on his #thisleague UNCUT podcast with TNT Sports’ Chris Haynes that the Suns might not fire him right away.
Stein said that the Suns are considering completely overhauling the staff around him as one option.
Frank Vogel Watch officially started on April 28, after ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski stated that there was a growing sense in the league that Vogel’s position was at risk after the team’s loss in Game 3 against the Wolves.
Even with that information, Frank Vogel appeared to be sure about his job situation.
“That very day,” he informed the journalists. “I have complete backing from Mat Ishbia, the owner of the Suns.”
Suns fans, do you want Frank Vogel to return?
We are officially on Frank Vogel watch. A decision is expected to come in the next 48 hours per Flex. pic.twitter.com/H696xEQxWW
— Mr. Az (@MrAzSports) May 6, 2024
In Frank Vogel’s debut season with the Suns, the team only managed a 49-23 record, facing roster challenges in Phoenix. The team had a strong core but lacked quality backup players for Durant, Booker, and Beal.
However, it will be a difficult task to reconstruct that supporting group.
Here is the best case to make for firing Frank Vogel ⬇️⬇️⬇️
— Jody Oehler (@radiojody) May 6, 2024
Booker has been the franchise’s leading figure since he came to the desert and at just 27 years old, unless he demands a trade, he will stay put. Beal’s contract is so expensive and includes a player option for the 2026-27 season that he will pick, making him almost impossible to trade because of the full no-trade clause.
Among the group, Kevin Durant, who is 35 years old, is the most feasible choice for a trade. However, he continues to be considered one of the NBA’s top scorers, averaging 27.1 points per game in the previous season. The Suns probably wouldn’t receive a package in exchange that would instantly improve their team.
However, in the upcoming season, those three players will also collectively earn a total of $150.6 million. Assembling a top-notch supporting team for such a high-priced trio is challenging.
These queries are meant for James Jones, the general manager, not for Frank Vogel. However, it is still uncertain if he is a suitable candidate to guide the team no matter what players are added alongside Durant, Booker, and Beal in the upcoming season. The previous campaign was not the most ideal introduction.
