LA Clippers’ head coach Doc Rivers apparently has tried to get thrown out of games in the past.
According to Doc Rivers a few days ago, the LA Clippers head coach has apparently attempted to get thrown out of games on purpose before in order to watch other sporting events. USA Today quoted him as saying:
"“When I was coaching the Celtics, I think there were four games left in the season — everything had been wrapped up as far as playoffs,” Rivers said. “The Masters was on. And at halftime, (general manager) Danny Ainge tells me that Tiger’s making a run. He says, ‘Get thrown out! Get thrown out and come back and watch with me."
Really Doc? I know you said the playoffs were wrapped up, but come on! You’re a head coach in the NBA. I know Tiger’s runs were great, but when you’re getting paid millions to coach a basketball team, you gotta focus on that a little bit. Maybe you’re heading into playoffs, but your bench guys can still use some work. Sometimes, those guys can swing a playoff game in your favor.
As soon as I read this I had to think about when Doc has gotten thrown out while coaching the LA Clippers. Were any on purpose? That Nets game melt down couldn’t have been, right?
I guess it’s a little funny though. I haven’t seen Doc get thrown out of a game that he didn’t seem to actually be mad about. Usually, he doesn’t get too irate anyway and instead just pulls out his Doc face.
As long as Doc’s days of getting thrown out on purpose to watch other sports are behind him, I’m cool with him sharing the story. Maybe he can even get Steve Ballmer to put a TV across from the team’s bench if there is something important on. I mean, they did show some of the Dodgers game 7 the other night at Staples. Now, he needs to make sure this team gets the chemistry they need so they can make a playoff run.