No, the Sixers’ struggles this season don’t fall
solely on the shoulders of Collins. Not only did he have to deal with a serious
string of injuries throughout the season, he never actually got to coach the
team he envisioned, and built around, last offseason. With Bynum sitting the
entire season, Collins was often left to play catch up, plugging players in as
he went along.
Nonetheless, after such a disappointing season it is
no surprise to see fingers pointed at the head coach, especially considering
the large hand Collins had in assembling this underachieving unit.
This pseudo-rebuilding stage the Sixers are in is
more than Collins bargained for, so it’s no surprise to see him stepping
away.
Realistically, the best available coaches, the likes
of hall-of-famers Phil Jackson and Jerry Sloan are not going to come to Philly
on a rebuilding mission. Coach Cal isn’t going to leave the comfort of Kentucky
to revive the 76ers, and Larry Brown isn’t going to walk through the door
accompanied by a 27-year old Allen Iverson. Let’s get those lofty options out
of the way early.
Don't expect to see this guy on Sixer sidelines (Photo: Yahoo!) |
However, even with all of those options eliminated,
there are plenty coaching choices for the Sixers to pursue; coaches who will be
eager to embrace the challenge of turning the team around.
1.
Avery Johnson – Johnson was given a very short lease
in Brooklyn this season, and was yanked from the job before the Nets ever even
dipped below .500. Known as “The General’ during his playing days because of
his knowledge and on-court leadership, Avery could be a great influence on a
young Sixer squad. As the youngest coach ever to reach 150 victoreis, Avery has
the energy, enthusiasm, and experience necessary to lead a team transformation.
2.
Brian Shaw – Currently an assistant
in Indiana, Shaw has been waiting in the wings to become an NBA head coach for
what seems like forever. Several years of assisting under the great Phil
Jackson, plus a plethora of playing experience make Shaw’s resume one of the best
among available options. His relatively young age, which would allow him to
grow with his players, and his desire to succeed at his first head coaching gig
should provide the Sixers with further incentives to pursue Shaw.
3.
Mike Brown – The 2009 NBA coach of the year, Mike
Brown could bring defense and a structured game plan to the 76ers. Defense and
discipline are important for a developing team, and Mike is a master at both.
Brown has never had to coach a team void of a superstar, and he might actually
enjoy developing a team where the agenda is not already set. The Sixers could
gain from his X’s and O’s, and it would give Brown a chance to show his
all-around coaching abilities; both sides could benefit.
4.
Stan Van Gundy – This is a bit of a reach, but if Stan
Van has any desire to return to the sidelines this season, the Sixers should at
least give him a glance. Van Gundy has had success at each of his two NBA
stops, and probably would have a championship ring had Pat Riley not stepped in
and took the team to the title himself. Van Gundy can maximize the talent of a
team, and puts his players in positions to succeed.
5.
Aaron McKie – This guy knows the Sixers’ system
in-and-out, as both a player and a coach and is extremely familiar with the
franchise. He is respected around the League for his basketball mind and is
relatable to his players. Though he lacks the leadership experience the Sixers
may be looking for, this could be a great opportunity for both sides to see how
McKie has what it takes to be a head coach in this League.
No comments:
Post a Comment