The Phoenix Suns have officially named Earl Watson as the team’s new head coach. Watson has agreed a three-year deal with the Suns.
Watson, 36, was named interim head coach of the Suns in early February after the team fired former head coach Jeff Hornacek. Watson then took charge for the 33 remaining games, leading the team to a record of 9-24.
It’s clear that Watson sold himself and his coaching abilities to the Suns organization, leading to the team removing his interim head coach tag.
Suns GM Ryan McDonough had this to say on Watson’s appointment: “Earl did a vey good job with our team last season after taking over as interim head coach during a challenging time for the organization. Earl’s natural leadership qualities and his ability to connect with and motivate our players have stood out throughout his time here in Phoenix. We are excited to see what he can do with a healthy roster after having a full offseason to prepare.”
The Suns believe Watson is their future, and it appears he has been given the approval of everyone in the Suns setup, from the GM all the way down to the players. If media reports are true, it seems many of the Suns players had only good words to say about their potential head coach when the Suns hierarchy came calling during the search for a new leader. Watson certainly appears to be that guy for the Suns going forward.
Watson does have more talent to work with than you may expect – Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight are currently injured, but both will be back next season. The Suns also have a plethora of young talent, with Devin Booker being the standout. With the likes of Archie Goodwin and Alex Len also on the roster the future doesn’t look as cloudy as first feared by Suns fans. So there is faith in Phoenix, especially as the team is expected to land a top five pick in this years draft.
The Suns have a lot to do to get back into playoff contention, Watson is a strong character who may be capable of getting them there. He is well respected and not afraid of making big decisions. He has a very tough task on his hands but with 14 years of NBA basketball experience in his back pocket, Watson certainly has the mentality and the mental strength to possibly get the job done.
