The Phoenix Suns finally found their guy.
They signed former Indiana Pacers, Orlando Magic, and Los Angeles Lakers coach Frank Vogel to carry Monty Williams’ torch and hopefully take them to the next level.
But as good a hire as this was for the team, NBA analyst Jason McIntyre believes he’s getting himself into a toxic situation.
"He's going into a really toxic situation in Phoenix."
— @jasonrmcintyre reacts to Suns hiring Frank Vogel pic.twitter.com/rqrUvEavkr
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) June 2, 2023
For starters, he thinks it’s suspicious that Doc Rivers pulled himself out of the competition.
Then, he reminded everyone that Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving seemed to believe that they didn’t need a coach when they played together in Brooklyn.
McIntyre added that the Suns need to improve defensively, which is why they hired Vogel, but that even a top-15 player like Durant needs a coach.
Moreover, he also reminded everyone that Vogel loves to have rim protectors on the floor, and the Suns’ depth chart at center is less than impressive with Deandre Ayton, Jock Landale, and Bismack Biyombo.
Ayton’s effort — or lack thereof — was a major talking point throughout the playoffs, but it was also more than evident that he didn’t get along with Williams, so maybe Vogel will be able to bring the best out of him.
But the reports about new owner Mat Ishbia taking a hands-on approach and being more involved in decision-making, along with Durant’s history of having a tough character, could mean trouble for Vogel, especially after how his tenure in Los Angeles ended, with some of his players waving him off and ignoring his instructions on the court.
NEXT: The Suns Make Major Coaching Decision
