The NBA sure knows how to make my jaw drop.
On Monday afternoon, ESPN’s Adrain Wojnarowski announced that the Los Angeles Clippers have decided to let go of head coach Doc Rivers.
Coach Doc Rivers is out with the Clippers, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 28, 2020
And here’s his statement:
— doc rivers (@DocRivers) September 28, 2020
Even despite the Clippers unexpected second-round exit in the playoffs this season, the news comes a pretty big shock. Rivers is one of the most respected head coach figures in the league, and he’s also been seated at the helm of the Clippers franchise since 2013. Indeed, the news today marks the first time Rivers has been fired since 2003 when the Orlando Magic decided to part ways with a young Rivers. Since 2004, though, he has served as an NBA head coach every season, leading the Celtics to a championship in 2008.
While some talked about the Clippers firing Rivers after the team’s poor playoff performances, I think it’s fair to say to many thought they’d actually go through with it, especially after Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes initially reported the organization would retain Rivers. The offseason meetings must have changed the gameplan, though, and it’ll be interesting to see if any updates surface about what certain players said behind the scenes. After all, it’s hard to believe Rivers would be out the door if star-player Kawhi Leonard wanted him to stick around.
Now, all eyes will be on the Clippers coaching search. Tyronn Lue is already on the bench, so there is reason to believe he could be the front-runner for the job, as he’s already a highly-touted candidate for other open positions.
But there are other candidates:
Doc Rivers had two years left on his contract, sources tell ESPN. This is a challenging coaching search for Clippers, who are the ultimate win-now team. Among top candidates in the marketplace: Clippers assistant Ty Lue and former Rockets and Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy. https://t.co/Ov02RYNbK9
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 28, 2020
May I recommend Jim Boylen?