Doc Rivers has mutually agreed with Steve Ballmer to step down as the head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers after seven seasons.
The most surprising storyline of this year’s Playoffs so far is the massive upset that the Denver Nuggets delivered against the Clippers. The Clips were supposed to be the team that gave the WCF showdown with the Lakers.
Instead, Kawhi Leonard and his squad were disgracefully booted out of the bubble earlier than they were supposed to be. Unfortunately, something had to give. One way or another, someone had to be accountable for the demise that the Clippers experienced this season.
Doc Rivers steps down as the Clippers head coach
Rivers has been the head coach of the Clippers for the past seven seasons. In his run, the Clippers never made it in the Western Conference Finals. However, he and his team had three opportunities to make it that far. The upsets just kept on pouring in despite him having one of the most talented squads in the league.
In Clippers press release, says “Steve Ballmer and Doc Rivers have reached a mutual decision that Rivers will step down as head coach of the L.A. Clippers.”
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) September 28, 2020
The decision ultimately came when the Clippers were ousted yet again after sky-high expectations from them. It was a mutual agreement between Rivers and Steve Ballmer. The latter was ultimately grateful for the contributions that Doc gave to the team. Ballmer said,
“Doc has been a terrific coach for the Clippers, an incredible ambassador, and a pillar of strength during tumultuous times. He won a heck of a lot of games and laid a foundation for this franchise.”
When asked about what happened during the Game 7 upset, Rivers didn’t shy away from the responsibility. He never has and would always take the blame for the shortcomings of his team. He said,
”I’m the coach and I’ll take any blame for it. But we didn’t meet our expectations, clearly.”
What’s next for Doc?
Doc Rivers is one of the winningest active coaches in the league. Despite his dismal record in crucial situations, Rivers delivers quality culture to any team that needs saving. He’s proven to be a championship coach with the Boston Celtics. He has also proven that he can turn a franchise around both from the front office and the sidelines.
As such, Rivers’ value in the market is still very high. Many teams, such as the 76ers, could benefit from a guy like Rivers. Nevertheless, fans of Doc Rivers can expect him to be back in the league sooner than later. He may not be on the sidelines anymore, but one way or another, a team will definitely pick him up for a job.
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