Championship Return? Mike Budenholzer Emerges as Surprise Contender for Bucks Coaching Role.
In a stunning and unforeseen twist, the Milwaukee Bucks sent shockwaves through the NBA by parting ways with head coach Adrian Griffin after just 43 games into the season. Griffin, who took the reins in the offseason, guided the team to an impressive 30-13 record, establishing them as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference, second only to the Boston Celtics.
Amid the chaos of Griffin’s sudden departure, speculations erupted when false reports circulated about the Bucks swiftly appointing Doc Rivers as his replacement. Contrary to these rumors, Doc Rivers remains a fixture on ESPN’s broadcast team, though sources suggest he is still under consideration for the vacant coaching role.
The repercussions of such a significant move have ignited debates within the basketball community. Here are five compelling reasons advocating caution against the Milwaukee Bucks appointing Doc Rivers as their new head coach.
1. An internal hire would be more beneficial: With Joe Prunty stepping in as the interim head coach, a case is made for internal stability. Prunty, a seasoned NBA assistant coach since 1996, has been part of illustrious coaching staffs with Gregg Popovich and Avery Johnson. Familiarity with the system and players might give him the edge, fostering a smoother transition than an external hire like Doc Rivers.
2. Terry Stotts is available: Should the Bucks look externally, the possibility of bringing back Terry Stotts looms large. Stotts, previously with the team during the summer, resigned under mysterious circumstances before the final preseason game in 2023. His offensive prowess and familiarity with key players, particularly Damian Lillard, make him a compelling option to fill the coaching void.
3. The Bucks could sign someone who has won them a championship already: The surprising decision to part ways with Mike Budenholzer after their playoff defeat to the Miami Heat last year raised eyebrows. Budenholzer, a championship-winning coach with the Bucks in 2021, boasts familiarity with key players and a history of consistently leading the team to the top seed in the Eastern Conference. His return could provide stability and potentially address the team’s defensive struggles.
4. Doc Rivers has a reputation for underperforming in the postseason: While Rivers has a championship under his belt, skeptics question his influence on the Boston Celtics’ 2008 victory. His playoff history, marred by blown leads and Game 7 disappointments, raises concerns. With the formidable Eastern Conference posing significant challenges, the Bucks may hesitate to entrust their postseason aspirations to a coach with a shaky playoff track record.
5. The Bucks are better off focusing on looking for a defense-first head coach: A crucial aspect of the Bucks’ past success has been their staunch defense. However, this season witnessed a decline, with the team plummeting to 21st in Defensive Rating. Despite missing key defensive players like Jrue Holiday and PJ Tucker, the Bucks must prioritize finding a head coach who can instill a strong defensive mindset to reclaim their reputation as a formidable defensive unit.
As the Milwaukee Bucks navigate this coaching storm, emotions run high among fans and players alike. The decision-makers must tread carefully in selecting a coach who can lead the team through the remainder of the season and, more importantly, navigate the challenges that lie ahead in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
