Recently, Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia decided to elevate Brian Gregory from vice president of player programming to general manager. Gregory, a longtime college coach known for his player development skills, now holds a pivotal executive role in a franchise marked by significant turnover and uncertainty.
The promotion comes amid whispers that Gregory had a major influence on the Suns’ 2024 NBA Draft, where Phoenix selected Virginia’s Ryan Dunn and Marquette’s Oso Ighodaro. However, sources close to the team suggest that the final say on these picks belonged not to Gregory, but to assistant GM Gerald Madkins. Madkins, who joined the Suns in 2023 after stints with the Knicks, Rockets, and Clippers, was instrumental in identifying Dunn and Ighodaro’s defensive upside, a key factor for a roster featuring stars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
Despite their efforts in shaping the Suns’ draft, Madkins and several other personnel members—David Sevush, Charles Payne, and Darrel Johnson—have reportedly been let go. Though these departures have yet to be officially confirmed, insiders view them as part of a broader reshuffling that has left many within the organization uncertain about the team’s direction.
Sources tell NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson that the Suns’ internal chaos has even caught the attention of their star players, particularly Durant. The two-time champion, who has been assured by Ishbia that he won’t be traded, has seen exploratory calls from other teams, including the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks. This tension underscores the fragile relationship between Ishbia and his superstar forward, whose commitment to Phoenix was pivotal in the team’s blockbuster 2023 trade for him.
While James Jones, who played a key role in the Suns’ 2021 Finals appearance, remains as a senior advisor, his influence has diminished. With Gregory now at the helm and the experienced personnel staff exiting, the Suns’ front office now seems more like a collection of internally promoted figures than a cohesive decision-making unit.
The question on everyone’s mind: Is this reshuffling based on merit, or simply loyalty to the owner? Gregory’s background in player development, rather than roster construction, raises concerns about the team’s ability to build a sustainable, competitive roster.
As the Suns approach another high-stakes season, the question of trust and stability looms large—especially as the team tries to retool around its Big Three and navigate the luxury tax.
