Doc Rivers already hired former Knicks coach Mike Woodson to join the Clippers’ coaching staff, and Lawrence Frank and Larry Drew also came up as possible additions.
With Alvin Gentry (Warriors) and Tyronn Lue (Cavaliers) departing, Rivers had two vacancies to fill.
But rather than settling on a former head coach like Frank or Drew, Rivers succeeded in his bid to pry Sam Cassell off the Wizards’ bench.
J. Michael of CSN Washington:
Sam Cassell has been allowed out of contract to join coach Doc Rivers staff w/ #Clippers, @CSNwashington has confirmed #WizardsTalk #NBA
— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) August 2, 2014
Tho Cassell was under contract, Wiz arent expected to receive anything in return. Anticipated this since for 2 weeks #WizardsTalk #NBA
— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) August 2, 2014
This deal isn't "official" yet but should be announced soon. Wiz already prepared to fill the void #WizardsTalk #Clippers #NBA
— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) August 2, 2014
Waiting for more details but if team lets Cassell out of his contract he's a free agent.Thats why nothing back #Clippers #WizardsTalk #NBA
— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) August 2, 2014
Cassell, a former point guard, earned rave reviews for helping John Wall develop, but Chris Paul doesn’t require that kind of personal attention. In Los Angeles, Cassell can spread his wings and establish himself as an all-around coach – key for one day becoming a head coach.
The Wizards might not get a draft pick in return, but they’ll gain credibility among future assistant-coaching candidates. By letting Cassell leave, Washington establishes itself as a franchise that won’t stand in the way of its employees’ personal development.
