Doc Rivers Out As Clippers Head Coach

In a decision that shocked the NBA on Monday, the Clippers and head coach Doc Rivers have parted ways on what was labeled as a “mutual decision.” In hindsight, it was no surprise that the team was going to shake things up after their blowing of a three-one lead in a second-round series against the Denver Nuggets, in a season where the team had championship aspirations. But, many thought this would come in a roster shakeup or a culture reset, but I guess Clippers management decided a new coach was the answer.

On his Twitter account Monday, Rivers was thankful to the organization and it’s fans. “Thank you Clipper Nation for allowing me to be your coach and for all your support in helping make this a winning franchise,” he said. “When I took this job, my goals were to make this a winning basketball program, a free agent destination, and bring a championship to this organization. While I was able to accomplish most of my goals, I won’t be able to see them all through. Though it was a disappointing ending to our season, you are right there and I know what this team is capable of accomplishing with your support.

With attractive jobs out there in the form of the 76ers and Rockets, the NBA coaching carousel is likely to be a particularly crazy one this offseason. So far, Rivers has not made it clear whether or not he will seek another job but rumors have been abound for his old one. Some candidates that have been mentioned are Clippers assistant and former championship head coach Ty Lue, former Houston Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni and even NBA legend Phil Jackson. Maybe it was time for a switch, but RIvers is known as a players coach and last year’s team clearly showed a lack of unity. It is unclear right now whether that is an indictment on RIvers himself or perhaps the roster is doomed in its current construction.