Phoenix Suns Fired GM Lance Blanks

The Phoenix Suns announced that general manager Lance Blanks is no longer gainfully employed — Blanks was fired following the second-worst season in franchise history. Per the AP: “Lance has been a trusted friend and colleague,’ said Suns President of Basketball Operations Lon Babby. ‘I thank him personally and professionally for his hard work on behalf of the Suns. We will continue to prepare for the offseason even as we look for his replacement.’ Blanks had served as general manager since Aug. 5, 2010, joining the team at a time when he was considered one of the league’s top up-and-coming executives. But this season was a harsh one as the Suns struggled to adjust after trading away two-time league MVP Steve Nash and letting former All-Star Grant Hill leave to kick off a rebuilding effort. The Suns finished 25-57, the second-worst record in franchise history behind their 16-66 effort in their inaugural season in 1968-69.”