Tyronn Lue Confirms Doc Rivers Told Him Clippers’ Key Star’s Trade Was ’No-Brainer’
Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers had previously mentioned that the Los Angeles Clippers consulted him before making the decision to acquire James Harden in a significant trade with the Philadelphia 76ers earlier this season.
Following the Clippers’ loss to the Bucks on Monday night, head coach Tyronn Lue confirmed Rivers’ involvement in bringing Harden to Los Angeles. Lue stated during his postgame press conference that he had discussions with Rivers, who wasn’t coaching at the time, regarding the Harden trade. According to Lue, Rivers believed it was a beneficial move for the Clippers, considering Harden’s track record as an MVP, scoring and assist leader.
Lue also praised Harden for his team-oriented approach, highlighting his willingness to create scoring opportunities for star teammates Paul George and Kawhi Leonard by running pick-and-roll plays.
Tyronn Lue spoke to Doc Rivers about the James Harden trade
Doc told T Lue that it would be a great trade for the Clippers, "pretty much a no brainer." Lue praised Harden (again) for his sacrifices to set up Kawhi/PG, and said Doc said it from "day one" pic.twitter.com/Vwa1mvZy41
— Law Murray 🧭 (@LawMurrayTheNU) March 5, 2024
Given Rivers’ previous coaching experience with Harden during his tenure with the 76ers, Lue sought his opinion on the matter. Rivers had expressed his endorsement of the trade, believing that Harden would fit better with the Clippers than he did with the Sixers.
Harden’s statistics for the season include averaging 17.4 points, 8.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, with a three-point shooting percentage of 40.9% in 54 games played.