Former Clippers Coach Doc Rivers Has the Perfect Response to Paul George’s Criticism About His Tactics

Following the LA Clippers implosion during the 2020 NBA playoffs, the blame-game has never ended with players pointing fingers at each other, and the coaching staff too. After Paul George hit out at former coach Doc Rivers for using him wrongly, the newly appointed 76ers coach has addressed those statements.

According to Keith Pompey from the Philadelphia Inquirer, Rivers said, “I enjoyed coaching him. So, not a lot to say there. Ty Lue was sitting right next to me… Listen, we lost the game, and I think everybody needs to take ownership. Obviously, we can always do better, and players can play better. I’ll leave it there.”

Lue was Rivers’ assistant last season, who took over following Rivers’ departure. So Rivers believes the new coach also believed in the same tactics employed by him. When Rivers’ 76ers play the Clippers, it will be a huge showdown between George and his former coach.

Will Paul George do better without Doc Rivers?

Rivers’ reply came after George’s comments on the All the Smoke podcast. He said, “Doc was trying to play me as a Ray Allen or a JJ Redick, all pin-downs. I can do it, but that ain’t my game. I need some mixes of some pick-and-roll and post-up… That last season was hard.”

While stats prove what George said was wrong, it will be interesting to see how Lue uses George. He will also be hoping that George can be more accountable this season and step up as a leader.

When it comes to accountability, Rivers isn’t the only one who has spoken up against George. During their Western Conference Semifinals against the Nuggets, former teammate Montrezl Harrell got annoyed with George. He reportedly said, “You’re always right. Nobody can tell you nothing,” after George didn’t take responsibility for playing poorly.

The Clippers are aiming for a redemption season, and George will have to play a big role for that to happen. The Lakers have gotten stronger, which could potentially create a bigger gap between the two teams. They might have lesser talent on paper, but the Clippers will be eager to prove they have more heart.

ALSO READ – Former Clippers Star Matt Barnes Warns Paul George – “LA Is a Monster, They Will Eat You Up.”