The Phoenix Suns have made significant changes following a disappointing 2022-23 season, finishing with a 36-46 record and missing the playoffs. The surprising firing of head coach Mike Budenholzer, who still had four years left on his contract, shocked many. In a strategic shift, James Jones was moved to a senior advisory role, and Brian Gregory was appointed as the new general manager, a choice backed by owner Mat Ishbia based on their history together at Michigan State.

Jones, who guided the Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals, has now been hired as the NBA's Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations, indicating the gravity of his contributions. His pivotal trade that brought Chris Paul to Phoenix is a highlight of his tenure, significantly shaping the team despite their finals loss against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Suns are now at a crossroads, considering how these leadership changes will affect their future prospects.

The Phoenix Suns have undergone a significant transformation this offseason, prompted by the team's disappointing 36-46 record and the highest payroll in NBA history. Owner Mat Ishbia wasted no time in making changes, starting with the firing of head coach Mike Budenholzer, who had four years and $40 million left on his contract. Following this, general manager James Jones was reassigned to an advisory role, paving the way for Brian Gregory, a longtime friend of Ishbia, to take charge of basketball operations.

In a major trade, the Suns exchanged Kevin Durant for several key assets, including Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 draft, and future draft picks in a historic seven-team deal. With the 10th pick, the Suns selected Khaman Maluach from Duke, a player who showcases great potential on both ends of the floor. Following the draft, the Suns also acquired center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, suggesting a focus on strengthening their frontcourt to remain competitive.

The Phoenix Suns are undergoing a transformative offseason after a disappointing 36-46 season, leading to significant changes at both coaching and management levels. The first major decision was firing head coach Mike Budenholzer, despite his recent five-year, $50 million contract. Owner Mat Ishbia found the results unacceptable given the highest payroll in NBA history.

In a bid for a fresh start, Ishbia appointed Brian Gregory as the new general manager, replacing James Jones, who was credited with the Suns' previous success. Gregory wasted no time in shaking things up, trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, securing Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, along with other picks. This trade is seen as a win-win, potentially positioning both teams for playoff contention.

The Phoenix Suns are undergoing significant changes after a disappointing 36-46 season that saw them miss the playoffs. The first major move was the firing of head coach Mike Budenholzer, who was let go just one season into a five-year, $50 million contract. The franchise's owner, Mat Ishbia, has appointed Brian Gregory as the new general manager, tasking him with reshaping the coaching staff.

With the hiring of Gregory, the Suns have appointed Jordan Ott as their head coach, hoping to improve from last season’s No. 11 seed finish. Ott is well-connected to the franchise, having ties to Michigan State, where both he and Ishbia studied. Additionally, the Suns are reportedly interested in bringing former Lakers coach Darvin Ham into their coaching staff to provide support to the rookie coach.

Kevin Durant concluded yet another outstanding season with the Phoenix Suns, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, securing his 15th All-Star nod and surpassing 30,000 career points. Despite his individual success, the Suns underperformed, finishing 36-46 and failing to make the playoffs, resulting in the firing of head coach Mike Budenholzer. This has ignited extensive trade speculation surrounding Durant.

Recent reports indicate the Toronto Raptors have emerged as a potential suitor, reminiscent of their bold move for Kawhi Leonard in 2018. While the Raptors are not among Durant's preferred destinations, their current core, featuring Brandon Ingram, Scottie Barnes, and RJ Barrett, positions them well to make a competitive offer. Acquiring Durant could significantly elevate the Raptors' playoff aspirations.