The Sixers just keep on rolling. Shortly after the team brought in Daryl Morey as the new President of Basketball Operations, it was also reported that they added two high-quality assistant coaches.
Sixers Add A Defensive Guru
The first was former Indiana Pacers assistant coach Dan Burke. Burke has been with the Pacers for an impressive 19 years. In that time he survived an incredible five Head Coaches. Some may remember Burke’s choice words aimed at the Sixers and Joel Embiid.
As a coach, Burke has been lauded by many for his defensive ability, something that the Sixers seemed to be in desperate need of. Not that long ago, the team addressed this in part by hiring former Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach Dave Joerger. While Joerger may have been impressive on his own, the addition of Burke is huge.
Dan Burke has worked with many quality defenders in 19 years with Indy. Some of the most impressive defenders include:
Ron Artest (now Metta World Peace)
Jermaine O’Neal
Roy Hibbert
Paul George
Myles Turner
Both Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid should thrive in this new defensive atmosphere.
Not soon after, it was announced that Doc Rivers’ former assistant, Sam Cassell, would be coming to Philly along with Burke.
Reunited And It Feels So Good
Doc Rivers and Sam Cassell are back together (One month later) and the Sixers’ coaching staff is looking better than ever.
Cassell was a big name this offseason as an up and coming Head Coaching candidate. Many thought Cassell would be next in line for Doc Rivers’ job in LA, a job that instead went to Ty Lue. While he missed on that job and others, Cassell will continue to be a hot name going forward.
The fact that he is in Philly should be seen as a blessing by fans. Cassell was a hot name for good reason. While some connected the dots many thought the addition of Cassell was unrealistic.
The two time-champion (as a player) has an impressive knowledge of the game and holds the respect of players and coaches alike.
It’s only a matter of time until Cassell becomes a Head Coach, especially after Doc Rivers endorsement.
The Sixers are positioning themselves well for the future but first, they must make the necessary adjustments to the roster.
Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire
