Since taking over controlling interest in 2023, team owner Mat Ishbia has burned through three head coaches — and now he’s looking for a fourth. Mike Budenholzer was the latest to go, fired earlier this month 36-46 season that left Phoenix on the outside looking in. That follows the exits of Monty Williams (2023) and Frank Vogel (2024). Williams and Budenholzer have NBA Coach of the Year trophies. Vogel and Budenholzer have championship rings. None of that mattered. But the Suns job is still one of only 30, and someone will absolutely take it. And this time, don’t be surprised if Ishbia swings toward a “player-friendly” option. Here’s a look at potential candidates who could be next in line for the NBA’s hottest coaching seat: David Fizdale: Knows the Suns. Has been on staff the past two seasons. Was well-regarded in Miami under Erik Spoelstra and once won over LeBron James. Not exactly a proven winner as a head coach (71-134 record), but familiarity might count here. Terry Stotts: Offensive mind with plenty of experience. Ran a potent attack in Portland with Damian Lillard and led the Blazers to the conference finals in 2019. Currently with Golden State. Willie Green: Currently with New Orleans, but with Joe Dumars in as Pelicans president, Green’s future is uncertain. He’s a Michigan native, like Ishbia, and was a Suns assistant during their Finals run in 2021. Devin Booker reportedly likes him. Keep an eye on this one. Johnnie Bryant: On the rise. Currently associate head coach in Cleveland and has earned praise for his work in Utah and New York. Strong relationships with players like Lillard and Donovan Mitchell. Adrian Griffin: Fired by the Bucks midway through a 30-13 start. Never really got a fair shake. His next gig could come soon. Darvin Ham: Made it to the conference finals in Year 1 with the Lakers, out in the first round in Year 2, and then out the door. Reunited with Doc Rivers in Milwaukee. Could be a stabilizing voice. Ben Sullivan: Rising assistant under Ime Udoka in Houston. Previously worked with Budenholzer and helped develop shooters in Atlanta, Milwaukee, and Boston. Quiet name to watch. Royal Ivey – Another Udoka assistant in Houston. Also coaching South Sudan’s national team at the Paris Olympics and turning heads with that program’s progress. Has a solid NBA pedigree. Chris Quinn: Heat associate head coach and longtime Erik Spoelstra understudy. Widely respected. Could be the next in line from the Miami tree. Bottom line: Ishbia wants results, and he wants them fast. Whoever takes this job had better be ready for the heat — because in Phoenix, the seat doesn’t just get hot, it scorches.