Doc Rivers says he expects all members of the LA Clippers to play in Orlando.
Doc Rivers finally answered the question all of Clipper Nation had. On a media Zoom call on Wednesday, the LA Clippers head coach said he expects everyone on the roster to travel and play in Orlando.
Is he 100% sure? No. But Doc has no indication that anyone will sit out.
The full quote regarding if anyone is sitting out:
"“I don’t think so. But listen, it is their choice, and we support that. There’s so many reasons for everyone to play, but there’s also very valid reasons for guys to opt out. I don’t think many will. I think they’re all invested in what we’re trying to do. But again, you don’t hold it against anyone on any team. This is extraordinary times, and we just have to support each other.”"
Many were concerned that Lou Williams seemed iffy on returning but Doc Rivers said he is going to play but obviously they can’t say for certain until they are on the plane and on the way to Orlando.
Even though Doc wouldn’t commit all the way to say Lou would play, the team did post photos yesterday of players working out in the facility which included Williams.
Back to work. pic.twitter.com/4SFnevPJyW
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) July 1, 2020
It stands to reason that Lou will be playing as of now since he is working at the practice facility.
Williams hesitancy is warranted. Players in the bubble are going to have to be mentally prepared, especially if family and friends are unable to join. The team has led the push to allow them to which would make things easier for players but does also add additional risk in the virus entering the bubble.
The league did announce today that nine more players have tested positive for the virus, bringing the total up to 25 out of 344 players that were tested. Still, even with the increased positive tests, the league seems to be going full steam ahead with the resumption in Orlando.
As the restart of the season gets closer and closer, make sure to keep checking back here for all your LA Clippers news, rumors, and more!