Ten-time NBA All-Star Paul Pierce reunites with his former Boston Celtic champion coach Doc Rivers after signing a three-year, $10.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Rivers is reportedly planning to place the 17-year veteran in the team's starting small forward spot after Matt Barnes was traded to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Lance Stephenson.
Initially, speculations came out that Stephenson would be Rivers' starter at no. 3, but the coach had since denied them by telling reporters that he would like the burly wingman to come off the bench to spell either the two guard or the small forward.
The Clippers hope that Pierce would finally provide the championship experience and playoff poise that the team direly needs. The Houston Rockets eliminated them in the second round of the recent playoffs after leading the series 3-1.
Critics slammed the team's evident collapse under pressure especially its two superstars, Chris Paul and Blake Griffin. With the move, Rivers might finally lead the Clips to the Western Conference Finals next year.
Meanwhile, the team is not done yet when it comes to acquiring free agents as Rivers is reportedly looking for a reliable backup for Paul at point guard. Fansided suggested Brooklyn's Jarrett Jack or Indiana's C.J. Miles as potential targets for Los Angeles.
The 6-foot-3 Jack is a 10-year veteran and a true point guard who facilitates well and can be an instant scorer off the bench. On the other hand, Miles is a 6-foot-6 wingman who primarily plays as a shooting guard but can also play point at times. Rivers is known to be fond of players that can play multiple positions.