Doc Rivers sat down gingerly in a chair and tried flexing the numbness out of his right leg. He had not grimaced like that since the Detroit Pistons ousted the Orlando Magic from the playoffs.

Rivers' back has been killing him for a while. He cringes at the thought of needing surgery. But then in the next second and change of subject, Rivers grins uncontrollably through every ache.

Doc never has felt so pain-free in his job as coach of the Magic.

Finally, relief is on the way in many forms:

For the first time in four seasons, the Magic will know before the opening-night tip-off that Grant Hill will not be available. Rivers says that Hill -- who is recovering from a fourth surgery on his left ankle in mid-March -- will sit out the entire season to rest and rehab, confirming a report last week in the Sentinel.

"It's just unrealistic to think Grant can play," he said.

It's tough on the player -- but easier on the planners.