Deandre Ayton, Pheonix Suns (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
National outlet suggests new Pacers-Lakers trade
The coaching carousel has been crazy this offseason and many of the pieces and changes are starting to come into focus. The most recent hire would probably be the most coveted job on the market: the Phoenix Suns.
Adrian Wojnarowski broke the news that the Phoenix Suns were bringing former Lakers and Pacers coach Frank Vogel to Phoenix.
BREAKING: Suns plan to hire Frank Vogel as franchise’s next coach, sources tell ESPN. The parties are beginning to work on a long-term agreement. Vogel brings with him a 2020 NBA title and a history of building high-level defenses. pic.twitter.com/csF6bO8Bp7
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 2, 2023
Vogel has had success in nearly every stop he’s had with the Indiana Pacers’ Eastern Conference Finals teams and championship team in Los Angeles. Additionally, he has had plenty of experience managing high-level stars in the NBA with Paul George in Indiana and LeBron James/Anthony Davis in Los Angeles. He’ll need all that experience leading a high-profile team that includes big names like Kevin Durant, Chris Paul and Devin Booker.
So what would he tell the Suns to look forward to with their new coach?
Vogel will bring a defensive presence to the team, which is probably something the Phoenix Suns could use some help with given their struggles last season. Hopefully he’ll also give Phoenix a little more of a “tough guy” mentality, which was a hallmark of his time in Indiana with players like David West and Paul George’s defensive toughness.
This is one of two former Pacers head coaches who were actively on the market this offseason, with Nate McMillan being the other coach who has yet to find a job. Perhaps Carlisle could bring him into the squad to help bring back our defensive glory days?
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