The Phoenix Suns find themselves in an unfamiliar spot at this point in their offseason compared to how the last two seasons have gone in The Valley, as there is cautious optimism right now around the franchise. This same feeling did exist when both Frank Vogel and Mike Budenholzer were hired - and although we know how that ended - it is hard not to be excited by the possibilities of Jordan Ott.
Ott was formally introduced as the new head coach of the Suns on Tuesday - and although owner Mat Ishbia continues to lurk with his meddling ways and apparent insistence on anybody joining having Michigan State links - Ott comes with a high approval rating throughout the league. With Kevin Durant also likely to depart, it is a chance for a fresh slate in Phoenix.
Which is exactly why Bol Bol will likely be back for a third season.
Bol is one of the most enigmatic players in the league - and has been his entire career - yet he has had moments of actual contribution across two years in The Valley. Both Vogel and Budenholzer at one point through each of their tenures - either through injuries or straight desperation - have turned to Bol to provide a spark for them.
The crazy thing is, he actually has done just that for periods when called upon. He's by no means a long-term solution, while defensively it is usually really bad. But if you watched the Suns last season, you will know Bol made small strides in that area - and although he is still a liability - he at least uses his long frame on the perimeter from time-to-time to disrupt opponents.
Bol Bol put in WORK in the Suns' victory!
💪 25 PTS
💪 2 BLK
💪 5 3PM
A new season high in PTS for the PHX center. pic.twitter.com/Y6bk1BF4xd
— NBA (@NBA) March 1, 2025
He even managed 10 starts across 36 appearances last season - and although that says more about the 36 win season the Suns ended up having - he was hardly the worst part about what they were trying to do on the court. If anything he kept sections of the fanbase engaged with his offensive unpredictability and his willingness to step into 3-point shots with confidence.
Which is why - whether you like it or not - you shouldn't be surprised if he again comes back to Phoenix for 2025-26. Bol has only ever signed minimum deals with the Suns, and that would be the case again in bringing him back. It is also clear that Bol's fit is better here than with any other team, and he has proven that with his play.
Naz Reid wearing Bol Bol’s jersey after the Timberwolves crush the Suns 116-98 pic.twitter.com/dfpP0IAdfW
— Brendan Mau (@brendan_mau) March 3, 2025
The Orlando Magic relied on him too heavily when they were going through a painful rebuild - and as soon as they had better players - they got rid of him immediately. Prior to that, the Denver Nuggets (the team who drafted him) also cut him loose when it became clear he could not contribute off the bench for what at the time was a fringe contender.
The Suns find themselves in between both of those spots right now, which is why Bol makes sense. Too committed to Devin Booker to tank, but nowhere near true contention in the Western Conference. Who knows, Ott could also end up getting the best out of him, while we can't discount the Bradley Beal effect and how it could also make Bol's life easier too. Don't say we didn't warn you.