NBA Rumors: According to President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey, Doc Rivers is expected to remain as head coach for the Philadelphia 76ers.
After falling short of the conference finals once again, it almost seemed like a foregone conclusion that the Philadelphia 76ers were going to part ways with head coach Doc Rivers. However, President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey quickly quieted those whispers.
When asked if Rivers would remain as the team’s head coach, Morey left no doubts.
"[via CBS Philly]Morey was asked if Rivers would return for the 2022-23 season and responded with “yes.”“It’s tough to be here right now. Still emotional. Doc met with the team in the locker room and that will stay there,” Morey said. “It was an emotional locker room. Look, we’re excited about what we can build from here. We think a lot of things that we can approve on. That’s on myself, that’s on Elton [Brand], that’s on Coach Rivers. We’re going to figure this out.”"
Many were quick to tag the team’s playoff performance on Rivers. Even though Joel Embiid was fighting through multiple injuries, there was a sense that the Sixers still underperformed in the postseason.
After acquiring James Harden at the NBA Trade Deadline, those feelings are not exactly surprising. When Harden was acquired, the Sixers were built up as a team that possibly had the best duo in the East.
The big problem with that, of course, is that Harden, aside from his first couple of weeks in Philadelphia, never really looked like his former all-star self. He was not consistent and hesitant when the Sixers’ season was on the line.
When Philadelphia needed him to step up most, especially in the absence of Embiid, Harden didn’t answer the bell. But Harden will get a chance to prove the naysayers wrong. Perhaps a full offseason in Philly will turn out better heading into next season. He is established, hopefully, will have a new contract, and will have the opportunity to get healthy.
Clearly, Morey and the front office believe Harden wasn’t right and that this team has the foundational pieces to win a championship. And Rivers seems to be a part of that foundation.
It seems as if Rivers is going to get another shot to make this right in Philly next season. Whether it ends up being the right decision or not remains to be seen.