In an appearance on the “All The Smoke” podcast last week, Clippers star Paul George expressed some issues with the way he was being used on offense by his ex-head coach, Doc Rivers.
Paul George on Doc Rivers: “Coach was trying to play me as a Ray Allen or as a JJ Redick, all pin downs. I can do it, but that just ain't my game." (via All The Smoke Podcast)
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 2, 2020
At the time, fans took it as another excuse made up by George for what was a disappointing season.
But in the most episode of “The Old Man & The Three,” Chris Paul made a similar claim about Doc, giving legitimacy to the idea that he has a very particular coaching style that may not have fit every player.
Chris Paul, while discussing Lob City Clippers – “You know a lot of Doc’s plays are for shooters.”
JJ Redick – “As we found out from Paul George this week.” 💀🤣
(🎥: @OldManAndThree) pic.twitter.com/OCR81WbMvF
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) December 9, 2020
The Lob City Clippers became popular for their exciting, high-energy style of play. Of course, they were also a team that was never able to meet expectations, famously underperforming in the playoffs. Did the schemes of their coach have something to do with that?
The Clippers said goodbye to Doc in favor of former Cavs coach Tyronn Lue. They’re hoping the change will be enough to bring them over the edge and finally win a Championship. That much remains to be seen.
As for Rivers, his most recent opportunity has taken him to Philly, where he will get the chance to lead Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid to new heights in the East. We will see soon enough how far they are able to go with his gameplan.
