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It’s been less than two weeks since the Sixers officially named Doc Rivers as their new head coach and the Sixers seem to already be in the process of filling out his new coaching staff.
ESPN’s Frank Isola reported that former Grizzles/Kings head coach Dave Joerger is in the mix for joining Rivers’ coaching staff.
Dave Joerger, who interviewed for the Indiana Pacers head coaching job, is under consideration to join Doc Rivers staff in Philadelphia, according to a league source.
— Frank Isola (@TheFrankIsola) October 14, 2020
This would be quite the hire for the Sixers if they do come to an agreement. Joerger has quite an impressive track record with the majority of his former stints. He’s specifically known for being a great defensive minded coach and saw major success with big men Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph.
Joerger could help form a defensive mentality in Philadelphia, which has lacked one over the past few seasons. The Sixers have a ton of defensive talent on the current roster with Ben Simmons, Josh Richardson, Matisse Thybulle, and Joel Embiid. The Sixers could definitely use some “Grit N’ Grind” in their defensive approach.
This hire could also bode well with Simmons. Joerger played a big part in De’Aaron Fox’s development who thrived under his fast-paced system. The Kings won 39 games in Joerger’s last season, which was the most for the franchise since 2006.
The Sixers’ first target — former Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry — recently took a job with the Kings as an assistant coach. Doc Rivers’ former assistant Sam Cassell has been in the mix for the Clippers’ head coaching position. It’s been rumored that many expect him to join Rivers’ staff if he doesn’t get a head coaching job.
Look for more rumors to come to light as time goes on and the head coaching market begins to dry up.