The Phoenix Suns should make Steve Nash their next head coach

By foxsports
Published

The Phoenix Suns are 126-169 since they traded Steve Nash in the summer of 2012. Sentimentally speaking, this was the toughest decision in franchise history. Nash, a two-time MVP who's as beloved as he is inspirational, was dealt at a time when the Suns were in desperate need of a makeover.

But after firing head coach Jeff Hornacek on Sunday, it's time they brought Nash back—this time, on the sidelines. 

How far is something like this from reality? Here's a look (via The Vertical):

That said, the whole "not wanting to coach" thing throws a wrench into Phoenix's dream. But the Suns shouldn't stop throwing ludicrous offers in Nash's direction. Make him the highest paid coach in the league. Whatever. Having Nash at every game makes the Suns relevant again. And outside popularity, there's a good chance he'll do a great job, too. 

A brilliant player for well over a decade, Nash saw the game in a way few others ever have. Beyond ethereal talent, he epitomized the star who directly and indirectly lifts his teammates to a higher level. He was a psychologist. He was an assassin. He was a captain and leader and winner. 

And look! He already has a relationship with at least two players on the team!

Ten years ago, Nash helped revolutionize the league as the quarterback of an uptempo system that played with excitement and efficiency. He joined Phoenix in 2004, and in his very first season they made the Western Conference finals and had the best offense in basketball. 

For the next five years, the Suns boasted either the fist- or second-ranked offense in the league, and Nash led the NBA in assists five times in a seven-season span.

Currently working as a part-time consultant for the Golden State Warriors, the man knows basketball. He knows how to create a positive culture and make all participants feel involved and worthy. He's a tremendous communicator, and from Jason Kidd to Steve Kerr to Derek Fisher to Scott Skiles to Doc Rivers, it's clear that point guards know how to make the transition from player to coach.

Phoenix would be wise to bring back the brightest star in their franchise's history. Far more than a public relation's dream, this would be an extremely smart basketball decision.