NEW YORK -- Four defeats A.D. (After Doc), hints and allegations continue to dribble-drive-and-dish throughout the league; the misinformed majority would like you to believe Magic GM John Gabriel undermined his undeviatingly adored coach by refusing to re-sign force field Darrell Armstrong. Not.

But, what the heck, don't take my "authorized" word for it.

"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.