Cheer Up Eddie! You're the New 76ers Head Coach!
The most top-secret head coaching search ever is finally over, it ended with the hiring of Eddie Jordan. With plenty of quality head coaching candidates out their the hiring of Jordan is disappointing to say the least for most fans.
I voiced my displeasure at the possibility of the Sixers hiring him a few weeks ago. I’m sticking to my guns on this one, but let’s give him a fair shake.
Let’s take a look at the Pro’s and Con’s of Eddie Jordan’s hire.
- The Relationship between Ed Stefanski and Eddie Jordan
Pro:
Eddie Jordan and Ed Stefanski are already very familiar with each other. There will be no need for a feeling out process. Which is partly what led to the hiring of Jordan over some of the other candidates. Stefanski will already know how Jordan wants to run his team and what pieces he needs to run it. A relationship that I think was lacking between Stefanski and Maurice Cheeks.
Con:
It’s true they know each other and player personnel decisions won’t be to difficult to pull off. There’s only one problem with that, there aren’t many decisions to make. What this Sixer team looks like now is pretty much what they’re going to look like next season. Aside from what they are going to do with Andre Miller and a very unlikely blockbuster deal, this is your 2009-2010 Philadelphia 76ers.
- Jordan’s Modified Princeton Offensive System
Pro:
Jordan has developed a slightly modified version of the Princeton system, one that allows for very balanced scoring. The system helps raise a teams shooting percentage considerably. Something the Sixers struggled with almost all season long especially during game six against Orlando. It will certainly help out Elton Brand, who was double teamed almost every possession last season. Jordan’s system will allow Brand to have many more open looks and help him get more involved in the flow of the offense.
Con:
The Sixers defense seemed to struggle under Maurice Cheeks most of the season. And with the arrival of Tony DiLeo’s new defensive system they improved but lacked the fundamentals to stay consistent. While Jordan was the Head Coach in Washington defense from his team was non-excistant They relied on simply out scoring their opponents. And the offensive talent on Washington although not overwhelming was certainly better then what the Sixers have now. So in escense the Sixers defense just went from bad to worse.
- Jordan’s a Players Coach
Pro:
After managing the head case that is Gilbert Arenas, Jordan passes the test as a “players coach.” There aren’t many ego’s on the Sixers, and Jordan’s presence will help keep it that way. Trust in your coach has to be built, knowing he understands and will listen to you is a great first step. After the lackluster views of Tony DiLeo by players, Jordan will be a welcome change.
Con:
Wasn’t Maurice Cheeks a players coach? Now I don’t think Cheeks was a bad coach and I think he was unfairly let go. However, isn’t hiring someone just like Cheeks sort of defeating the purpose? And if Jordan doesn’t hold his players accountable he’ll find himself in the unemployment line right next to Mo.
- Jordan’s Contract is a Three Year Deal, Guaranteed
Pro:
Jordan did in time lead the Wizards out of the first round. He did in time make them somewhat of a respectable team after being cellar dwellers for quite a while. Jordan’s deal is a guaranteed three year deal, along with is familiarity with Ed Stefanski, eventually good things could happen. Jordan’s Princeton offense has been said to have a bit of a learning curve so we may not see immediate results. However, time is on Jordan’s side and he’s proven before he can coach and win in this league. With the right tools he should be successful here in Philadelphia.
Con:
Will Philly fans wait for success? I think the empty seats proved how apathetic fans are, perhaps more scoring will bring them out for a while. However, if they are still a losing team whose all capped out with no hope on the horizon people will not go. Like I’ve said before the Sixers need to show the fans something, something they can hang their hats on. Slow developing results will not change the perception of this team.
Now we have a better idea of what Eddie Jordan brings to the table. I was never crazy about the idea of hiring Jordan, but after reviewing things I feel a little different. I am optimistic, but still disappointed in the hire, I still believe a better coaching option was still out there. And some of those better options were never even interviewed. For Stefanski it’s a safe hire, but will a safe hire make your team better? A contender? Only time will tell, but being mediocre will no longer due for this team, or for this city.
-Mike Santa Barbara
*** Follow Me On Twitter Mike__SB ***
