Suns coach Mike Budenholzer praises Devin Booker’s communication style after Haynes report
Coach Mike Budenholzer praised Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker’s communication style and took no issue with Booker’s comments after Thursday’s loss to the New Orleans Pelicans.
“Devin and I have lots of conversations, so I think it’s super healthy,” Budenholzer said before Friday’s game against the Pelicans. “Devin’s care factor is off the charts. Devin always starts with himself. He’s always pushing all of us to be better.
“Devin’s awesome and his communication is awesome. His style is great … There’s conversations that Devin and I have all the time, and I’m good with those conversations. We don’t always agree on everything. I think he actually appreciates it, I appreciate it.”
Budenholzer’s comments came after NBA insider Chris Haynes reported earlier on Friday that the Suns coach weeks ago called Booker into his office to tell him to tone it down vocally and allow for the coaching staff’s message to get through to the team.
According to Haynes, Booker was “completely shocked” by Budenholzer’s request.
Budenholzer addresses Booker’s postgame comments
After the Suns lost, 124-116, to the Pelicans at PHX Arena on Thursday, Booker was asked to assess how Phoenix finds itself below .500 and chasing a play-in spot.
“I’d say it could be fixed with just a little more talking, I would say,” Booker said. “Things get tough, we get quiet as a team. And from my experience and from what I’ve seen, that’s not a way to get through it.
