Mike Budenholzer, former head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, now leads the Phoenix Suns as they prepare to face his old team for the first time since his firing. Budenholzer achieved significant milestones with the Bucks, including an NBA championship in 2021 and a Coach of the Year award. However, his final season ended in disappointment after a playoff exit to Miami, leading to his dismissal. Despite his past, Budenholzer is focused on his current team's preparation, emphasizing the need to concentrate on the Suns' goals.

While Budenholzer claims his emotions won’t interfere with his coaching, both players and analysts expect some heightened energy upon facing the Bucks. Suns' superstar Kevin Durant noted that great teams often match their coach's intensity, hinting at the emotional stakes involved. As the Suns strive to overcome a rocky season, Budenholzer faces criticism for their performance despite a high payroll and is under pressure to deliver results in the upcoming games.

Oso Ighodaro has stepped up impressively for the Suns as Mason Plumlee faced consecutive ejections, showcasing his strong potential in the NBA. In a recent matchup against the Sacramento Kings, Ighodaro scored 11 points, pulled down six rebounds, and recorded a career-high four blocks in just 32 minutes of play. This performance helped the Suns to snap a two-game losing streak, enhancing their chances in the play-in tournament.

With Plumlee's ejections, Ighodaro embraced the 'next-man-up' mentality, showing readiness and energy when called upon. His ability to capitalize on increased playing time demonstrates his importance to the team's depth as they strive for playoff positioning. Fellow rookie Ryan Dunn also contributed significantly, scoring 16 points and adding youthful energy which has been crucial during this stretch.

The Phoenix Suns have experienced a dramatic shift from a promising start to facing a precarious situation as the NBA season unfolds. After beginning the season with a 9-2 record, expectations soared, especially with standout performances from Devin Booker and Kevin Durant during the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, the Suns now find themselves at 29-33, sitting outside the play-in tournament at the 11th seed in the Western Conference.

In a bid to revitalize their roster, the Suns have sent Oso Ighodaro, their 2024 second-round pick, to the G League affiliate, Valley Suns. Despite a solid start with a role on the team, a decline in minutes and the emergence of players like Bol Bol and Mason Plumlee have made Ighodaro expendable. With a crucial game against the Denver Nuggets approaching, the Suns hope to regroup and reclaim their earlier momentum.

The New York Knicks are facing challenges with their rookie class this NBA season. Players like Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek, and Ariel Hukporti have shown potential, but none have yet established a firm spot on the roster. Recent analysis by Bleacher Report's Andy Bailey suggests the Knicks missed an opportunity in the 2024 draft, where Jamal Shead emerged as a notable choice for the 24th pick. Shead's tenacity and scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, could have fit well in New York. Furthermore, Bailey highlights the talent of Oso Ighodaro, who the Knicks might have benefited from instead of their current rookies. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how these players develop and if the Knicks can capitalize on their potential.

Monday's NBA action brought a wave of unfortunate injuries, notably for Deandre Ayton who left with a calf injury that could sideline him. If Ayton misses time, rookie Donovan Clingan, who impressed with 21 points and solid rebounding stats, becomes a must-add in fantasy leagues. With Clingan's averages of nearly 10 rebounds per game, he can fill the void effectively.

In Dallas, Max Christie has been thriving post-trade, putting up notable numbers that make him a solid pick-up. Meanwhile, Olivier-Maxence Prosper stepped up with Daniel Gafford out, showcasing the potential for increased roles in the Mavs' struggling lineup.

Oklahoma City's Aaron Wiggins continues to excel, while KJ Simpson shined in LaMelo Ball's absence. Richaun Holmes is solidifying his starting spot for the Wizards, and Caris LeVert is gaining traction with increased minutes following a teammate's injury. Wrapping up, Isaiah Collier's performance highlights his growing significance in the league.