Doc Rivers not liking the new 90 second rule being enforced by the NBA – NBA News
As the NBA’s new 90 second rule starts being enforced during games, players and coaches have started reacting to it, with many objecting to it while some supporting it. And the Boston Celtics Head Coach Doc Rivers is one of those
who are strongly opposing the new rule, even asking for it to be re-considered.
The new rule asks players to be ready for tip-off 90 seconds after player announcements in an attempt to start the game on time. If players are not ready for tip-off within the 90 seconds, teams can be handed out a delay of play
warning, and more than one warning can lead to a technical foul. The rule will cut into the pregame player routines, in which they shake hands with opposing teams, interact with the crowd to get them roaring, and some players even go through pregame routines
as part of their showmanship.
But Doc Rivers is opposing the rule for an altogether different reason, advocating a coach’s point of view by saying that 90 seconds are not enough for the coach to draw the first play and get the players on board in the huddle
before breaking off for the start of the game.
"I don't like it. I think it's too quick. I think they need to change it to two minutes, maybe even 2½ minutes. I don't think they factor in the coach actually has to draw up a play first, and then guys break. It makes the first
play that you draw up before the game almost silly. Guys are more focused on running out on the floor,” said Rivers.
Rivers has another idea for the league if they want to make the game shorter and ensure that it starts on time. He says that the league can put restrictions on player announcements, or pregame dance routines that are usually done
by the team cheerleaders.
"To me, if you really want to do something, shorten the intros, where we have all the dancing and music. If they want to get the game started, shorten that for a minute and give the players an extra minute."
Rivers idea may not sit well with many of the league franchises, as they consider the pregame shows as well as the player entrances a big part of the experience they try to sell to the fans and the potential crowd. Making such
a move will take away a great deal of the experience the fans love to see, and is a big reason why they show up for the games.
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