The Sixer Sense
Fansided

3 coaches who could replace Doc Rivers if 76ers get bounced in second round

By Christopher Kline

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 07: Head coach Doc Rivers of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on April 7, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 07: Head coach Doc Rivers of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on April 7, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
(Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /

1. Nick Nurse

Nick Nurse is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the NBA, so the Raptors’ decision to fire him moves him to the forefront of every coaching search. Nurse won the championship with Toronto in 2019, notably beating the Joel Embiid-Jimmy Butler Sixers in the process.

With a strong postseason track record and a proven history of developing talent, it’s hard to deny Nurse’s credentials. His ability to pivot after Kawhi Leonard’s departure and keep Toronto in the Eastern Conference contenders circle was undeniably impressive.

Following Leonard’s move to LA, Nurse’s creativity was on full display. His ability to craft a winning team out of atypical lineups, often without the guard support or rim protection inherent to most contenders, is a true credit to Nurse as a coach. He has historically been quite adept at adjusting come playoff time and Toronto has traditionally over-achieved during his tenure.

That being said, Nurse is coming off the Raptors’ most disappointing season in a while. Toronto missed the playoffs entirely and is now facing an organizational crossroads. Even the best coaches have flaws, and there have been plenty of reports about discomfort in the Raptors’ locker room this season. Nurse was heavily criticized for his over-reliance on Toronto’s starting five and the lack of development for young bench pieces this season. He is not perfect, and the Sixers would need to wade carefully into discussions with Nurse.