BOSTON -- When Doc Rivers departed the Boston Celtics in 2013 after nine seasons as their coach, he admitted he was not enthused about the prospect of enduring another rebuilding process. It's part of the reason Rivers ultimately became intrigued by a Los Angeles Clippers team that was a surefire contender.
Fast-forward three years, and the talent-laden Clippers have won just two more playoff series than the Celtics. Both teams are coming off a first-round playoff exit, and at least one sportsbook pegs them with similar championship odds for the 2016-17 campaign.