Suns 5-on-5: Should Hornacek Bench Players For Technicals?

2. Does Hornacek have another option besides benching guys if he wants to make a statement?

Bourguet: Unfortunately not. Team meetings and being strict haven’t done the trick, so if the Suns don’t want to act like they’re older than high school students, why not treat them that way?

Chasen: If there is, I’m not sure what it is. Hornacek is making a statement that will make the team better in the long run, and it might even get them some more respect with the officials down the road. That being said, if he ever picks up a few technicals over the course of a few games, there might actually be a mutiny on his hands, so that’s something to look out for.

Hann: Even under the current threat of being benched, the players have yet to cease with the technical fouls, raising the question: should Hornacek come down even harder? The answer could be yes if the Suns continue to show such lack of poise. One rule that could be implemented, the player is benched for the reminder of the game and benched for the first half of the next game. Although, with the Suns fighting for a playoff spot, the coaches will have to decide what is more important down the stretch, teaching long-term lessons, or winning now.

Saar: Not really, but I’m pretty sure the problem will be short-term, and the players will get things sorted out going forward.

Schall: Not really unless he wants to start suspending guys. But, the root of the issue are the players not being able to control themselves in the moment. A harsher punishment doesn’t do anything to stop that. Unless Hornacek wants to trade Markieff (not a good idea) he might just have to live with it.

Next: The Next Two Games