Rivers expresses concern over latest Delonte West suspension

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WALTHAM, Ma. - Once again, trouble has found its way into the life of former Boston Celtic Delonte West.

For the second time in less than a week, West has been suspended indefinitely by the Dallas Mavericks for conduct "detrimental to the team."

"The suspension is effective immediately," said Dallas GM Don Nelson in a statement released by the Mavs on Thursday.

Following the announcement, West took to Twitter to express his disappointment with the decision.

"And it just ain't right ... imma leave it at that," West wrote on his verified Twitter account, @Charleeredz13. "no ill will towards no one ... I'm just sittin here across from the arena wit tear in my eyes."

Doc Rivers has always had a soft spot for his former players. But it was always to a greater extent with West who among other things, battled a bipolar disorder.

"I love Delonte," Rivers told CSNNE.com. "I'm always worried about him."

Added Jason Terry, who played with West in Dallas last season. "I just remember he was the guy you wanted on your team. He's a competitor. He was a hell of a teammate and I loved playing with him."

 West has had a slew of problems at just about every stop along his NBA journey, although the drama was relatively low during two separate stints with Boston.

"Everybody here loved Delonte," said Paul Pierce. "I loved his competitiveness. Obviously, everybody has their own issues, some more documented than others. But I love what he brings to the table. He can be a character at times; he's very free spirited. But a lot of people love to be around him."

Although a third return to Boston seems highly unlikely - rookie Kris Joseph has the 15th and final roster spot for the Celtics - that doesn't mean the C's stopped caring about him.

It was clear in Doc Rivers' words and his facial expressions that West's latest troubles have him worried more so about the person than the player.

"I focus on all the guys I've coached," said Rivers, who added that he plans to try and contact West very soon. "I call Perk (Kendrick Perkins), I call Al (Jefferson) ... You may stop coaching them, but you never stop worrying. It's like your own kid that grows up and goes out of your house. I don't know if the worrying ever changes, but I am definitely concerned about this one."

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