New York Knicks: The Buzz Surrounding Jeff Hornacek
Steve Albert: Phoenix Suns Broadcaster
Few individuals are more knowledgable about the ins and outs of a professional basketball team than the local broadcasters. They watch every game with a courtside view, and regularly interact with both the players and coaches.
Thus, these comments may be the most significant of any on the list.
Steve Albert was the broadcaster for the Phoenix Suns during Hornacek’s tenure as head coach. Thus, he watched Hornacek lead Phoenix to an unspeakable turnaround in 2013-14, and witnessed the subsequent collapse in 2014-15 and 2015-16.
Per Marc Berman of The New York Post, Albert shares the opinion of many close to the situation: Hornacek is a good coach who got the short end of the stick in Phoenix.
"“Knicks fans will be pleased by Jeff’s smarts and calm demeanor,’’ said Albert, a former Nets, Mets and Islanders play-by-play man and brother of Marv. “The players will like him because of his fast-paced, up-tempo style. Due to extenuating circumstances, the Suns struggled the last two years. But I think the real Hornacek is the guy who led the Suns to 48 wins and were the feel-good story that season. You just suddenly don’t lose your coaching skills. The guy was destined to be a good coach.’’"
That’s the general consensus from those closest to the situation.
Hornacek took the job as head coach in 2013-14, fielding a team with low expectations. Phoenix had just gone a league-worst 25-57, and played in the Western Conference at the peak of its recent powers.
Despite losing starting point guard Eric Bledsoe for 39 games, Hornacek led the Suns to a record of 48-34—a 23 win improvement from the previous season.
Unfortunately, what followed was a scene of complete disarray. Phoenix’s front office made a number of egregious mistakes, thus leading to the Suns’ record of 39-43 in 2014-15, and Hornacek’s eventual dismissal in 2015-16.
Per Berman, Albert commended Hornacek’s composure during those trying times, and scoffed at the idea that he’ll crumble beneath the pressure applied by the New York media.
"“He was a fan favorite wherever he’s been,’’ Albert said. “Was a tough player, great shooter, excellent basketball mind. Don’t let Jeff’s laid-back personality fool you. He can be fiery. If you think he’ll be swallowed up by the demanding New York media, he’s quick-witted, has a sarcastic edge and gives thoughtful answers.’’"
2014-15 was influenced by a number of poor decisions. Goran Dragic, who made the All-NBA Third Team in 2013-14, was entering his contract year, and Phoenix decided it’d be a good idea to re-sign Eric Bledsoe—understandable—and sign Isaiah Thomas—what?
In other words, the star player was about to become a free agent, and the organization signed two star-caliber players at his position.
The first lesson in Team Chemistry 101: don’t do that.
The front office got off scathe free as Hornacek bit the bullet. Thus, while it may be sensible to point to a coach’s overall record, this falls into the rare territory of, “Don’t do it.”
Hornacek is a respected head coach who’s generally believed to have a bright future in the NBA.
Next: Phoenix's Front Office