Doc Rivers doesn't see the 2019-20 Los Angeles Clippers beating his 2007-08 Boston Celtics that won the NBA championship.
The Clippers made a huge splash this offseason, signing two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard in free agency and making a trade for ex-Oklahoma City Thunder swingman Paul George. The move elevated the Clips into legitimate championship contenders, especially with their deep roster that also boasts Patrick Beverley, Montrezl Harrell, Montrezl Harrell, Ivica Zubac and reigning Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams.
Despite their offseason moves though, Rivers still thinks the Celtics team he coached to the 2008 NBA title is better and way deeper. Boston's championship squad back then boasted the Big Three of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen together with Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins.
“I think so, and it’s because of the mental toughness of that group,” said Rivers on why he thinks the 2008 Cs would beat the current Clippers. “That was a very skilled, very deep team, and the depth made them so special.
“When you think of the Celtics, you think of ‘The Big Three’ [Paul Pierce, Garnett, and Allen], but that doesn’t include [Rajon] Rondo or Perk [Kendrick Perkins], who were both phenomenal players, or Eddie House, Tony Allen, James Posey, PJ Brown, Big Baby [Glen Davis], and Leon Powe. That was a deep basketball team. Teams aren’t as deep now.
Sure enough, the Leonard-led Clippers haven't proven anything yet. They are one of, if not the deepest team in the league today, but they know that doesn't mean anything unless they win a ring.
As for the debate which is better between the 2007-08 Celtics and the 2019-20 Clippers, maybe Rivers can let the records and accomplishments speak for themselves.
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