Overview

• Phoenix has selected Cleveland assistants Johnnie Bryant and Jordan Ott as final candidates to replace Mike Budenholzer.
• Owner Mat Ishbia and GM Brian Gregory are scheduled to meet both finalists this week before making a decision.
• The incoming coach will be the franchise’s fourth in four seasons and must meet five criteria including program building and defensive expertise.
• Phoenix is actively pursuing a trade for 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant to regain draft assets and ease a projected luxury tax burden.
• The new coach will inherit a top-heavy roster led by Devin Booker, Durant and Bradley Beal after a 36-46 campaign that missed the playoffs.