The Phoenix Suns are reportedly set to make Kevin Young the highest-paid assistant coach in the NBA.
The Suns are expected to name Frank Vogel as their new head coach to replace Monty Williams. After their Western Conference playoff semi-finals loss to the Denver Nuggets, the Suns parted company with Williams.
Vogel is now expected to take on the role. It was reported by ESPN on Friday that the 49-year-old was in final discussions to complete a five-year deal to become the new Suns head coach.
Vogel has plenty of experience in the NBA, with his last job being the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, which he held for three years and won the 2020 NBA title. He’s also coached the Indiana Pacers and the Orlando Magic in his career.
During his career, Vogel has coached some of the NBA’s biggest stars including LeBron James. He also has experience as an assistant coach himself from his time with the Boston Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers and the Pacers, before he was named head coach.
Associate head coach Young was also in the running to make the step up to be the head coach. He is believed to have had the support of star player Devin Booker to take the role. But instead it’s being reported that he will remain assistant, but be the highest-paid in his position across the NBA.
ESPN is reporting that Young is closing in on a new deal that is said to be worth around $2 million. The Suns are believed to be determined to keep Young with the team, and are prepared to pay him the most money for an NBA assistant coach.
Young was linked with potentially joining Williams following his move to the Detroit Pistons after being fired by the Suns. However, the Suns are determined to keep hold of their assistant, so much so that they are willing to pay him millions of dollars in the process.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia is not the only one who is a fan of Phoenix's assistant. Suns star Devin Booker knows full well the importance that Young has had on both himself and the rest of the team.
"He can do stuff on the court and he’s a mastermind with the Xs and Os and game scouting and knowing teams," Booker is quoted saying in AZ Central . "So having the balance of both has been a big boost for my career.
“He’s really helped and is someone you can go to, ask any type of question. He’s been around it for a long time. He knows the game.”
