Since Doc Rivers assumed the role of head coach for the Milwaukee Bucks, the team has yet to secure a victory. This slow start has prompted one former player to suggest his departure.
Despite leading the Bucks to one of the top records in the Eastern Conference, Adrian Griffin was replaced by Rivers. With the team aiming for a championship, the experienced coach was seen as a top choice.
During a discussion on Shannon Sharpe’s “Nightcap” podcast, Gilbert Arenas shared his views on Doc Rivers taking over the Bucks. He believes they should reconsider and return coaching duties to the interim coach.
“The best move for the Bucks right now is to go to the locker room and say hey Doc, we’ve changed our mind,” Arenas stated. “Doc, pack your things because ultimately, we were doing fine before you arrived.”
Despite Rivers losing his first two games in Milwaukee, the Bucks remain in second place in the East with a record of 32-16. However, the New York Knicks are close behind in third place with a record of 31-17.
Doc Rivers’ decision-making has come under scrutiny following a questionable call during a crucial moment against the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite his championship pedigree, doubts persist about his suitability for the Milwaukee Bucks, especially given his recent struggles in guiding superstar talent in the playoffs.
In a tight game against the Trail Blazers, Rivers’ choice during the closing seconds raised eyebrows. With the Bucks trailing by three points and possession of the ball, Rivers opted to have Giannis Antetokounmpo inbound the ball to Damian Lillard, the Blazers’ sharpshooter.
This move, given Lillard’s proficiency from the free-throw line, allowed the Blazers to foul immediately, forcing Giannis to shoot free throws. Unfortunately for the Bucks, Giannis missed his attempts, sealing their defeat.
While it’s possible that Giannis was signaling to Brook Lopez to set a screen for Lillard, the decision to have Giannis inbound the ball left many puzzled and questioning Rivers’ late-game strategy.
