The Phoenix Suns parted ways with head coach Mike Budenholzer due to a reported disconnect with his players. Budenholzer, who led the Milwaukee Bucks to a championship in 2021, advised Bradley Beal to play like Jrue Holiday, a key player on the Bucks team. Beal, the third leading scorer on his team, was offended by the suggestion and expressed his displeasure to Budenholzer.
Despite Budenholzer's successful coaching history, his approach did not resonate well with Beal, who rejected the idea of emulating another player's style. Beal, a three-time All-Star, spent a significant portion of the season coming off the bench for the Suns. He commands a high salary and holds a player option and no-trade clause in his contract.