The five best coaches in NBA history are Red Auerbach, Red Holzman, Phil Jackson, Pat Riley and Bill Sharman, and with Greg Popovitch a *close* sixth. And they are all worthy of the title "Red", much like a mafia chief is called a Don.
Why do I think Bill Sharman belongs in this list ?
Well, Bill is the Bill Walton of NBA coaches.. He didn't coach much, due to injury (he damaged his vocal cords), but he was the great innovator (he invented shootarounds, among other things) and his best was the best. He and Pat Riley are the only people to have won NBA titles as a player, coach and GM.
One of Bill's greatest achievements was in coaching Wilt during the 72 season, when the Lakers went 33 in a row and won the NBA championship. Basically he got Wilt to do what he wanted by making Wilt think that any instruction was in fact his own idea.
Mike D has the same challenge with Shaq, imho. and the solution is the same. I, for one, am looking forward to the rest of this season. Next year.. well if Shaq can stay healthy they have a shot at 70 games. Truly.
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