PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 02: James Harden #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the New York Knicks at the Wells Fargo Center on March 2, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Knicks 123-108. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
At a press conference last week, it was announced that Nick Nurse had landed himself a position as the new head coach for the Philadelphia 76ers. Nurse replaced Doc Rivers, who was fired soon after losing game seven to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Things took an awkward turn when Nurse was asked straight out for his hope for the James Harden situation. Harden, a star in the NBA, has been a part of two playoff runs for the 76ers and has an option for $35.6 million. Without a definite decision in place, Harden may stay in Philadelphia. However, there are rumors of a Houston return as well.
Nurse’s impact helped lead his team to a regular season record of 227-163, after five seasons, and secured two top-spot finishes within the Atlantic Division. One of these, of course, was the precursor to the NBA Finals victory over the Golden State Warriors in his first season back in 2019.
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His vision is not in the past but is pointed toward the future of the 76er teams, which Nurse indicated that it includes plans for the young guard Tyrese Maxey.
“He’s got a tremendous chance to improve and take a step forward, and from all indications, he’s really hungry to do so. Good worker, good person who really wants to get better,” said Nurse.
76er general manager Daryl Morey is confident in this new hire that comes with a championship pedigree and the extra bonus of a familiar face.
“Obviously, we have a lot of work to do from here, but having the chance to add Coach Nurse to the 76ers is, personally, really cool because we’ve had a long-term relationship,” said Morey. “He’s been a championship coach at so many levels. At least five championships at all different spots. He’s done the grind and continues to improve. Including one [championship] that’s really familiar with Sixers fans obviously, beating us in that one series. He’s someone who’s a lifelong learner, always trying to find that next edge. We’re excited to be a partner with him as we work on the roster and into next season.”
Nurse now joins Philadelphia and has the chance to coach 2023 MVP Joel Embiid. Next season is shaping up to be more interesting for the 76ers, and the offseason has not even started.
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