The Phoenix Suns’ coaching search continues, and while patience is often encouraged at this time of year, it’s evident the front staff is casting a wide net. And slowly dragging it along the water floor. The recruitment is expected in late May or early June, and the company appears to be exploring every option. According to reports, 15 to 20 people have already been interviewed or are on the list.
No stone is left unturned. And some of the stones are…curious.
According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Josh Longstaff, an assistant with the Charlotte Hornets, is one of the names under consideration.
That’s correct. The Hornets. “The very image of sustained success and stability,” Voita said with a Monster energy drink in one hand and a pocket full of sarcasm in his pocket. Has Voita switched to third person?! What is going on?
Charlotte and Phoenix have an undeniable connection. Last season, Charlotte was involved in every transaction made by the Suns at the deadline. Two different deals. Two distinct pathways cross. So, if Josh Longstaff landed in Phoenix, he’d likely walk into a room full of familiar people.
“Hey, what’s up, Nick!”
Longstaff’s path through the league has been a grind — a résumé built in the shadows, from the far end of benches and behind the scenes in player development. He began his NBA journey in Oklahoma City as a player personnel video coordinator, working his way up to video analyst and player development coach. He later spent three seasons with the Knicks, closely working with Kristaps Porziņģis during the early part of the Latvian’s career. From there, he took over as head coach of the G League’s Erie BayHawks before joining Mike Budenholzer’s staff in Milwaukee — leaving just before the Bucks claimed a title. Next came four seasons with the underwhelming Bulls, followed by a move to Charlotte a year ago, another franchise still searching for stability.
There’s a clear pattern here.
Longstaff has often found himself on teams in transition — organizations still trying to figure things out. That’s not to say he’s to blame. No assistant coach singlehandedly defines a franchise’s success. Still, when people talk about vision, alignment, and a team’s identity, you start to wonder: what exactly is Longstaff’s coaching identity? What does he bring? If he landed in Phoenix, would he offer a fresh perspective, or just more of the same?
Chances are, he’d be a solid “yes man” — which might be exactly what the Suns are after.