NBA Takes…with Teresa: Rating the Top 10 coaches after the first 20 games
4. Monty Williams – Phoenix Suns
As coach of the Phoenix Suns, Monty Williams has done a great job. They are currently fourth in the Western Conference with an 11-8 record. Led by Devin Booker, Phoenix had an unbeaten record in the bubble. Unfortunately, they were beaten out by the red hot Damian Lillard and his Portland Trailblazers and went home without making the postseason. I hope to see them in the playoffs this season without the play-in.
3. Mike Malone – Denver Nuggets
Mike Malone is just a fantastic coach. It’s easy to be a fantastic coach when you have such a great team. In fourth with a 12-8 record, Malone looks to be steering his team down that same path to the Western Conference finals. I don’t know, but they could make it to the finals this year.
2. Doc Rivers – Philadelphia 76ers
Last season Doc Rivers was the Clippers’ coach. He and the Clips parted ways in October. Before his seat was cold at the Staples Center, Doc was the head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers. Doc Rivers is a great coach, and there shouldn’t be any way this team shouldn’t be in the Eastern Conference finals.
The Philadelphia 76ers coach last season was Brett Brown. At the 20 game mark, they were 14-6 in fifth place. Today with Doc Rivers, they are also 14-6, but this time it’s good for first place.
For this team, is it the coach or is it the players? We’ll see after the All-Star break. A team like the Nets should be easy to beat, especially since they don’t play any defense. Good luck this season Doc.