Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer has refuted recent reports suggesting a toxic atmosphere within the team’s locker room.
Addressing the allegations, Budenholzer stated, via Shane Young, “Not true. Making it through a season and all the things that come with that, are never easy. It’s not like this has been a perfect or easy ride. But I think the guys’ commitment to each other and willingness to learn and grow is good.”
The Suns, featuring stars Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, have faced challenges this season. Currently holding a 26-25 record, they sit ninth in the Western Conference.
Speculation regarding locker room discord gained traction after Jusuf Nurkic, who was benched earlier this season, admitted to having no communication with Budenholzer for months. The center stated, “We don’t have a relationship,” fueling rumors of internal issues.
The Suns have made roster adjustments in response to their performance issues. On January 15, they traded forward Josh Okogie and three second-round picks to the Charlotte Hornets for center Nick Richards and a 2025 second-round pick. This move aimed to bolster their interior presence.
Additionally, on January 21, Phoenix acquired multiple first-round picks from the Utah Jazz in exchange for their 2031 unprotected first-round pick. These strategic decisions reflect the organization’s commitment to strengthening the team.
Most recently, on February 6, the Suns traded Nurkic to Charlotte in exchange for Cody Martin, Vasilije Micić, and a 2026 second-round pick. The move aimed to shake up the roster amid ongoing struggles.
Most recently, the Suns defeated the struggling Utah Jazz behind 47 points from Booker.
