Phoenix Suns Begin Search For New General Manager

In the wake of Steve Kerr's resignation, the Suns have begun searching for a suitable replacement, though a hire is not expected to be made in the extremely near future, given the preparation required for the draft and impending free agency.

Suns President and Chief Executive Officer Rick Welts said, "The practical timing of that makes it impossible. Beyond that, it's going to be as soon as the right candidate is identified."

The timing is dire, in fact, as the general manager is directly responsible for both the draft and negotiating with free agents. Though Kerr has stated that he will work through the draft and help prepare, he will not be involved in free agency -- including potentially re-signing star Amar'e Stoudemire.

Though owner Robert Sarver has stated that he foresees a list of 20 or 30 candidates to sort through, there are already a handful of names being thrown around, including San Antonio Spurs assistant GM Dennis Lindsey, Los Angeles Lakers assistant GM Ronnie Lester, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant GM Tony Ronzone, Denver Nuggets Vice President of Player Personnel Rex Chapman, and Milwaukee Bucks director of player personnel Dave Babcock.

When Kerr first resigned, it seemed a no-brainer that Suns Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin would step into the role, as he's been the unofficial GM-in-waiting for years now. However, Griffin has also resigned and will no longer be with the organization once his contract expires on June 30.

According to Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic, Griffin's resignation was tied to Kerr's and the story echoes the speculation of many in the NBA, that there's a storm brewing in the Suns front office and few in the current regime want any part.