"I didn't want Darrell back," Doc Rivers openly admitted shortly after being dumped at the curb. "He's my all-time favorite player, but the only way to take a step forward was to have Tracy McGrady leading the team. Darrell was a strong leader and a good leader for nine seasons. But the only way to advance to the next level was to have your best player as captain.

"Historically, that has always been true. Look at all the great teams - Celtics, Lakers, Bulls, Pistons - their leaders were their best players - Russell, Bird, Magic, Michael, Isiah. What team has won a title with its best player not being the leader."