The Los Angeles Clippers parted ways with head coach Doc Rivers on Monday, nearly two weeks after LA blew a 3-1 series lead to the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals.

Despite Rivers' lack of playoff success with the team, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer expressed his praise and appreciation for the veteran coach in the wake of the decision.

“Doc has been a terrific coach for the Clippers, an incredible ambassador, and a pillar of strength during tumultuous times,” Ballmer said, via Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press. “He won a heck of a lot of games and laid a foundation for this franchise.”

Over seven seasons in LA, Rivers accrued a 356-208 regular season record, but his teams were under .500 (27-32) in the playoffs. During his tenure, the Clippers lost two second-round series after going up 3-1 — in 2015 to the Houston Rockets and this 2020 against the Nuggets.

The 58-year old Rivers has a 58.1 regular-season winning percentage in 21 seasons as a head coach for the Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics and Clippers.

Rivers, who had two years left on his deal, posted a statement on Twitter shortly after the news broke.

“When I took this job, my goals were to make this a winning basketball program, a free agent destination and bring a championship to this organization. While I was able to accomplish most of my goals, I won’t be able to see them all through. Though it was a disappointing ending to our season, you are right there and I know what this team is capable of accomplishing with your support.”

Clippers star Kawhi Leonard reportedly signed with LA in part to play for Doc Rivers. Now, his role in the coaching shakeup and search could be a major point of speculation in the coming weeks. Current Clippers assistant Ty Lue and former head coach Jeff Van Gundy could be in pole position for the gig, according to Woj