It’s uncommon for a new coach to take over a ready-made team that’s a borderline contender. Most notable examples in the past few years being Fred Hoiberg for the Chicago Bulls and Steve Kerr for the Golden State Warriors. Two polar opposites of success. But new head coach David Fizdale wanted a ready made team that he could make take the leap into serious contention, he told the Boston Globe:
“That was the only way I wanted it, to be honest with you,” Fizdale said. “I didn’t want to take over a restart. I’m not afraid to coach guys.