Doc Rivers, trainer from Los Angeles Clippers, says Lou Williams is expected to join the team to restart the NBA in Florida.
Williams described himself as “50-50” as to whether he would end the pandemic season because he didn’t want to distract from the ongoing pursuit of social justice after George Floyd’s death in police custody.
“Of course, anything can happen until we get on the plane,” said Rivers during a video conference with the media on Wednesday. “But I expect Lou to be with us. I would be very surprised if it wasn’t him. “
Williams, the sixth man of the year last year, averaged 18.7 points, 3.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists in 60 games before the league closed due to the corona virus in March.
Rivers said he doesn’t think any of the clippers will sign out of the season’s resumption. The team will travel to Orlando, Florida on July 8th.
“But listen, it’s your choice and we support it,” said the coach. “There are so many reasons for everyone to play, but there are also very good reasons for guys to opt out. I don’t think many will. I think they’re all invested in what we’re trying to do. But don’t do it here either. ” It is an extraordinary time in which we only have to support each other. “
Guard Landry Shamet repeated the feelings of other players traveling to Florida at a time when COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are increasing in certain states.
“It is obviously a problem, but we are in the best possible situation and scenario to deal with it,” he said. “If there is a scenario where you feel more comfortable, it is in a bubble. It is as controlled as any environment, so this is a positive aspect that I have been thinking about.”
Rivers added, “I hope that if we reach the bubble, it will be the safest place in America.”
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