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4 head coaches who could replace Unseld Jr if Wizards decide to move on

By Cem Yolbulan

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Boston Celtics during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 28, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Boston Celtics during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 28, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Doc Rivers

An NBA champion, Coach of the Year winner, and the ninth-winningest coach in NBA history, Doc Rivers is perhaps the highest-profile coach on the market today. After being let go by the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason after three straight conference semifinal exits, Rivers agreed to become an ESPN analyst for the 2023-24 season. After coaching for 20 years straight without a pause, this is a much-needed break for the 61-year-old.

After one season of being a color commentator, Rivers may want to make a return to coaching. The Washington Wizards could be a wonderful option for both sides.

Doc Rivers’ postseason struggles will likely make him an unappealing target for contending teams. However, for a team like the Wizards, Rivers’ regular season magic could be appealing. Rivers has consistently overachieved in the regular season, especially with limited rosters. When he won Coach of the Year in 2000 with the Orlando Magic, the team was slated to have the worst record in the NBA that year. Rivers carried them to 41 wins.

Rivers is one of the best ever at managing players. He made a reputation for himself in managing egos as he led the Boston Celtics to the NBA championship in 2008. He knows how to get the most out of individual players as he installs discipline and organization in every team he coaches. This could make him an excellent fit as the Wizards are desperately seeking to build a winning culture in Washington.

It’s hard for any rebuilding team to do better than Doc Rivers. If Unseld Jr. is no longer the head coach after next season, Rivers should be on top of the list for the Wizards.

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