Former Clippers head coach Doc Rivers was without a job for just a handful of days. He’s reportedly set to take that same job over in Philly for the 76ers. Here’s the LA Times reporting:
Former Clippers coach Doc Rivers, who unexpectedly parted ways with the Clippers earlier this week, has accepted a job to coach the Philadelphia 76ers, according to sources with knowledge of the deal.
Rivers rapidly became a favorite of Philadelphia after unexpectedly entering the pool of candidates looking for work. He’ll be reunited with Tobias Harris while inheriting Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid.
Philadelphia fired coach Brett Brown, who shepherded the team through “The Process” years but who was also unable to have postseason success. The 76ers were swept in the first round of the playoffs by Boston.
For Rivers, it’ll be the fourth team he’s coached since taking over the Orlando Magic in 1999. He’s not had a season off since.
The Sixers are in a tricky situation. Their roster remains a complicated chemistry experiment. All key players on the squad are signed at least through next season, so the core remains Ben Simmons, Josh Richardson, Tobias Harris, Al Horford and Joel Embiid. There’s big talent in that group of names, but there are also big contracts, especially those of Harris and 34-year-old Horford. Trading either of those two players will be tough, but that’s what may have to happen. If it doesn’t, keep an eye on lineups Rivers uses, because they may not be what is expected.
