After numerous rumors, the Orlando Magic have decided to part ways with Doc Rivers. It was noted that John Gabriel was the one who informed Doc of the team's decision. Personally, I think Gabriel should have gone long before Doc. Dave Wohl was also released.
Johnny Davis will be taking over as the interim coach. Paul Pressey should be taking over as his assistant.
Personally, I think this is a bit of a knee jerk on the executive level. The execs felt that a change was necessary, I just think they looked to far down the chain. The middle management and the blundering decision making is where the Magic should really focus their attention.
I have said in the past that we would need to part ways with Darrell Armstrong and Doc Rivers in order to go any further in the playoffs - looks like we get both this year. Too bad neither were on better terms.
2 Comments on "Coaching Change"
The described change may accomplish a short-term gain; however, the present organization WILL continue to have problems until management is turned over. All that will happen is that the middle and low level management will be covering their asses; and no fame and glory will come until either the ownership changes attitude or the team moves; the fact is that no one in the DeVos management organization really understands sports; and the man at the top is completely OUT-OF-IT!! This ain't about SOAP or writing BOOKS; but it is a bit like a PYRAMID SCHEME - UNTIL THE CUSTOMER GETS FED UP!! The problem is that a majority of fans in Orlando don’t understand sports, and aren’t voting with their voices during games and their wallets when shelling out for tickets and trinkets!! In order for any changes to come about, John Weisbrod, John Gabriel and Pat Williams have to go also!! Pat to a lesser extent; but he has been a non-producer load and 'pot-stirring' minion for years; and the other two who have never had a 'real' job, primarily for their judgement of a player's talent, physical condition, attitude, and proven ability to play through adversity!! I’m not even sure these people would make a good used car salesman!! Jazz coach Sloan had it right - the players and their agents have the ear of management - END-OF-STORY!! I can’t wait until the PACERS get a piece of the MAGIC ass!! There now my true loyalties are bared!!
Doc should consider himself lucky to get out of this mess. I bet management consulted with T-Mac before taking action.