Phoenix Suns tap Ryan McDonough as new general manager

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PHOENIX, May 7 (UPI) -- Former Boston Celtics executive Ryan McDonough has been tapped as the new general manager of the Phoenix Suns, the club announced Tuesday.

Suns President of Basketball Operations Lon Babby said McDonough would replace the fired Lance Blanks, who was dismissed April 22 after Phoenix went 25-57 this past season.

"Ryan distinguished himself among an impressive group of candidates for our GM position," Babby said. "His natural leadership and communication skills will serve the Suns well."

Babby said the 33-year-old, after spending the last three years as the Celtics' assistant general manager, has the ability "to identify talent" as the Suns eye six first-round draft choices over the next three years.

He is the son of the late Boston Globe columnist Will McDonough and the brother of broadcaster Sean McDonough.