Though Phoenix has had different stars and veterans on its roster, it seems Booker's voice carries the most weight. The Athletic's Doug Haller, Sam Amick and Fred Katz reported that part of Budenholzer's firing was because of his "contentious relationship with" Booker and other players.

The Suns tasked Budenholzer with leading their new big three of Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal on a championship run, but they ended up missing the playoffs entirely. Things never worked out with Budenholzer, and it wasn't a surprise to see him get fired on Monday.

Mike Budenholzer was fired by the Suns on Monday and his relationship with Devin Booker may have contributed to the decision.