James Harden Played A Key Role In Doc Rivers' Firing

The Philadelphia 76ers parted ways with Doc Rivers after three years with the head coach. Following another disappointing playoffs exit, the front office decided to fire Rivers, who couldn't get past the second round in the postseason. 

Reports suggested James Harden didn't want to play under Rivers anymore, and Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reports that the Beard played a key role in Rivers' firing. 

"Sixers president Daryl Morey shouldered responsibility for the decision to remove Rivers during a news conference Wednesday. Several members of Rivers’ staff, sources said, have pointed to All-Star point guard James Harden — whom league personnel are expecting to decline his player option in search of a long-term contract — as a driving force behind Rivers’ departure."

Their relationship really fell apart during this playoff run, and the Sixers decided to let Rivers go, as they intend to re-sign Harden this offseason. The player is now ready to find a new team in the league, but given his conditions, the Sixers appear to be the best option for the shooting guard. 

A potential reunion with the Rockets has been shut down, and now Harden must decide if any of the offers out there fit what he wants to do with his career. 

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Joel Embiid Was Unhappy With Rivers' Firing 

On the other end, Joel Embiid had a completely different reaction to Rivers' firing. Daryl Morey revealed that the Cameroonian player was shocked by this decision, as he was pretty close with the 2008 NBA champion. 

The Sixers have a big list of candidates, which include Mike Budenholzer, Monty Williams, Frank Vogel, Philadelphia assistant Sam Cassell, former Rockets head coach Mike D’Antoni and former Raptors head coach Nick Nurse. 

Whoever lands in Philly will have a big responsibility, but they'll also get a very good team. With the right helmsman, they can go back to compete and leave behind all the bad seasons. 

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