Mike Budenholzer says he understands the narrative.
The perception, public and within the organization, that the head coach left the Hawks because he was frustrated with the now rebuilding organization. Just three seasons removed from directing a veteran-laden team to 60 wins and the Eastern Conference finals, the Hawks went 24-58 last season.
Within days of the end of the regular season, Budenholzer was officially talking to other teams, despite two years and $14 million remaining on his contract with the Hawks. The 2017-18 season was also difficult after owner Tony Ressler made several changes to the structure of the organization that included the loss of the title of President of Basketball Operations for Budenholzer.