To be frank, I’m a bit perplexed.
It seems unlikely that the Sixers would take James Harden’s opinion into account regarding Doc Rivers, given that Harden is already on his way out. Perhaps Harden was simply offering some advice before his departure, or maybe the Sixers believe they have a chance at re-signing him if they remove Rivers. Either way, it appears that Rivers is attempting to shift blame onto someone else for his dismissal, rather than taking responsibility for the repeated playoff shortcomings of his teams.
Here is what is being said via Yahoo.com.
At this juncture, Philadelphia’s process to replace former head coach Doc Rivers is not expected to grow beyond the Sixers’ initial list of Budenholzer, Williams, Vogel, Philadelphia assistant Sam Cassell, former Rockets head coach Mike D’Antoni and former Raptors head coach Nick Nurse, sources told Yahoo Sports. Sixers president Daryl Morey shouldered responsibility for the decision to remove Rivers during a news conference Wednesday. Several members of Rivers’ staff, sources said, have pointed to All-Star point guard James Harden — whom league personnel are expecting to decline his player option in search of a long-term contract — as a driving force behind Rivers’ departure.
There are reports suggesting that Harden is seeking a minimum four-year contract, and it’s unlikely that he’ll accept a pay cut, especially after doing so for the Sixers this season. Harden has expressed his desire to join a team that is a contender for the championship, but also one that allows him to play in his signature style. However, it remains to be seen if those two requirements can be fulfilled simultaneously. This season, Harden was most effective as a point guard who didn’t take too many shots, and that’s the kind of value he can bring to any new team he signs with. It seems like the days of him taking up too much time dribbling at the top of the key are now behind him.
