The Phoenix Suns entered the 2024–25 NBA season with championship aspirations, boasting a star-studded lineup featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Despite these high expectations, the team concluded the regular season with a 36-46 record, finishing 11th in the Western Conference and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2020. This outcome was a significant underachievement given the team’s talent and payroll.
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In response to the disappointing season, the Suns dismissed head coach Mike Budenholzer after just one year at the helm. Budenholzer, who was hired on a five-year, $50 million contract, struggled to establish cohesion within the roster and reportedly had difficulties connecting with key players, including Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant and head coach Mike Budenholzer.
© Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
It marked the third consecutive year the Suns have fired their head coach, following the departures of Monty Williams and Frank Vogel in previous seasons.
As the organization seeks stability, the Suns are actively searching for a new head coach. The team is reportedly evaluating a list of candidates ahead of next season.
Among the candidates, Cleveland Cavaliers assistant coach Jordan Ott has emerged as a notable option, according to AZ Central’s Duane Rankin. Ott joined the Cavaliers’ coaching staff in 2024 after previous assistant coaching roles with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Brooklyn Nets.
Rankin wrote, “Ott also has ties to Suns superstar Kevin Durant, who was in Brooklyn from 2019 to right before the 2023 trade deadline when the Suns acquired him in a blockbuster deal. Durant’s future with the Suns is uncertain as the team entertained trade talks for him before the 2025 trade deadline, but he and Ott have worked together.”
This report comes after news earlier this week from NBA insider Jake Fischer that a return to Phoenix for Durant “has not been fully ruled out” despite the trade rumors. Phoenix showing interest in Ott amid this news feels potentially relevant.
During his tenure with the Nets from 2016 to 2022, Ott worked closely with Durant, who played for the team for three seasons. This prior relationship could be a factor in the Suns’ consideration.
