Doc Rivers on NBA 90-second rule: 'I don't like it, I think it's too quick'

Celtics coach Doc Rivers thinks the NBA's 90-second rule is too short and doesn't provide enough time to draw up a play before opening tipoff. (Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

A lot of players are unhappy with the NBA's renewed enforcement of the 90-second rule, and now Celtics coach Doc Rivers has expressed his dissatisfaction, according to USA Today:

"I don't like it. I think it's too quick. I think it's too rushed."

The rule stipulates that teams must be ready for the opening tipoff 90 seconds after player introductions; the idea is to get games started on time. The rule has been in place for years but was rarely acknowledged, and elaborate pregame rituals ensued.

Rivers had thoughts on an alternative solution:

"To me, if you really want to do something, shorten the intros, where we have all the dancing and music," Rivers said. "If they want to get the game started, shorten that for a minute and give the players an extra minute."

He proposed lengthening the timeframe to two or even 2 ½ minutes to give coaches enough time to draw up a play.

"I don't think they factor in the coach actually has to draw up a play first, and then guys break. I hope that will be changed a little bit," said Rivers. "It makes the first play that you draw up before the game almost silly…. Guys are more focused on running out on the floor."