(Photo by NBC News)
"A.J, I know that you are going to milk this problem to no end." "You will continue to state that Jerry Colangelo was a better owner than Robert Sarver is."
"You just need to let it go."
Let's be real, many of you were thinking this as the news of Robert Sarver's one-year suspension was announced. I pointed this out a few years ago in a blog, regarding his strong-arming the city for renovations to the now-named Footprint Center and reportedly, threatening to move the team to Las Vegas and Seattle if the renovations weren't met. I mentioned the "Fire Sarver" message on billboards across the Valley. Maybe it's time to bust those out. This was in 2018, when the team was losing.....a lot.
We are now in 2022, where the team is winning.....a lot, and Robert Sarver is drawing the ire of everyone associated or a fan of the Phoenix Suns once again. Apparently, you can not say racial slurs or make misogynistic comments to employees and think you can get away with it as this was an episode of Mad Men. Sarver's wife, Penny, reportedly threatened former employees if they came out with the news. These two sound like a great couple. Many are pissed that Sarver didn't get a lifetime ban as Donald Sterling received. PayPal, the jersey sponsor of the Phoenix Suns, made a statement that they will not be the sponsor for them if Sarver is brought back after his suspension ends. This is a complete mess for a franchise looking to reach the summit.
Speaking of mess, that is how the 2021-2022 season ended. A 33-point drubbing at the hands of the Dallas Mavericks stopped momentum after a record-breaking season for the Suns. The window is still open for the team to taste championship glory, but it could be closing. The franchise locked up Devin Booker, DeAndre Ayton and Mikal Bridges in under a calendar year to solidify a nucleus for the future. The one question mark is point guard Chris Paul. At his late 30's and towards the end of his Hall-of-Fame career, Paul is still chasing the accomplishment that has eluded him: the NBA championship. He will be under a microscope all season to finally reach it. Players like Jae Crowder, Cam Johnson and hopefully, Cam Payne can provide quality minutes to help keep the team afloat.
The time is......now! This is the season that the Suns can seize the moment. When their disgraced owner is on the sideline, the Phoenix Suns can take advantage and grab the brass ring. Over fifty years of waiting for a chance, this is the chance.
Now, that Jae Crowder wants a trade.......it's okay. The Suns can overcome everything and get the title that they deserve.....but if they fail, it will be..........
Paxson for three....Yes!
Paxson for three....Yes!
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