The Phoenix Suns have successfully recruited a former Lakers assistant to join their ranks, in a stunning move that underlines the relationship between former Lakers HC Frank Vogel and his coaching staff. This latest addition to the Suns‘ coaching staff exemplifies Vogel’s coaching approach and championship credentials.
Jon Pastorek, provides a plethora of knowledge in player development, having worked under Vogel throughout his time in LA.
Pastorek’s choice to leave the Lakers and join the Suns highlights the Phoenix franchise’s developing status as a WC title contender. This move will likely have an impact on both teams, with the Suns obtaining a key asset and the Lakers forced to reorganize and maybe look for a replacement for Pastorek on their bench.
Suns bag Lakers’ player dev coach
The Phoenix Suns have signed Jon Pastorek, the acclaimed player development coach from their Western Conference opponents, the Los Angeles Lakers, in a big coup. Pastorek’s decision to join the Suns reflects the team’s rising status as a championship contender.
With an already star-studded coaching staff led by former Lakers head coach Frank Vogel, the arrival of Pastorek improves their coaching prowess even further.
Lakers assistant Jon Pastorek will be joining Frank Vogel’s staff in Phoenix, sources tell the @latimes. Pastorek has worked for the Lakers since 2017, a valued bridge between Luke Walton, Vogel and Darvin Ham’s tenures. He won a title on Vogel’s staff.
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 17, 2023
Pastorek’s departure from the Lakers leaves a noticeable vacuum in their player development department. His knowledge and skills were highly regarded in Los Angeles, and his absence will surely be lamented. However, his move to the Suns gives an intriguing opportunity for him to contribute to the development of Phoenix’s elite group.
The Suns’ coaching team, which already includes seasoned assistants like Phil Handy, inherits Pastorek’s tremendous expertise and championship-winning experience. His arrival demonstrates the Suns’ dedication to maximizing their players’ potential, cementing their standing as WC contenders.
While the Lakers must reorganize and maybe fill the vacuum created by Pastorek’s departure, the Suns can rejoice in the fact that they have hired a highly respected player development coach. Pastorek’s track record and familiarity with Vogel’s coaching approach make him a key asset for the Suns as they continue their quest for a championship title.
Suns fell prey to newly crowned NBA Champions Nuggets
The Phoenix Suns’ voyage through the Western Conference playoffs was overshadowed by a loss to the Denver Nuggets, who went on to win the NBA championship. Despite an outstanding regular season and great expectations heading into the playoffs, the Suns were unable to overcome the daunting challenge given by the Nuggets.
Throughout the series, the Suns demonstrated their talents, including Devin Booker’s spectacular scoring ability and Chris Paul’s leadership. They showed tenacity and determination in each game, fighting tooth and nail. The Nuggets, though, proved to be a strong force, led by their star duo of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. The Nuggets‘ victory over the Suns was aided by Jokic’s playmaking abilities and Murray’s scoring proficiency.
The Suns’ brave attempts were ultimately in vain, as they were unable to consistently respond to the Nuggets’ offensive firepower. The Suns failed to manage the Nuggets’ explosive performances despite their great team cohesion and solid defensive play.
While the Suns’ and their fans’ setback was definitely painful, it served as a learning lesson and fuel for future progress. The Suns’ series against the Nuggets highlighted areas for development, delivering vital lessons as they attempt to make long playoff runs in the future.
The Suns, with their great roster and the leadership of Chris Paul, will look to build on this experience and return stronger in their pursuit of an NBA championship.
