Mixed Feelings for Doc Rivers and His Bucks Heading Into the NBA Playoffs

Milwaukee Bucks v Sacramento Kings
(Photo : (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)) SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 12: Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers points to his team during their game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on March 12, 2024 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

Back in January, Doc Rivers took over as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, replacing Adrian Griffin. 

It was a surprising turn of events for a team that boasted a 30-13 record then, with the Bucks sitting second in the NBA Eastern Conference. 

The Bucks under Griffin, despite a stellar record through 43 games, struggled defensively; holding a 21-ranked defense amongst the league's worst.  

Now with just a few games remaining in the NBA regular season, Doc Rivers' tenure has had mixed results. The Milwaukee Bucks remain one of the best teams in the NBA despite, at times, not meddling together perfectly. 

Related Article: Joel Embiid Injury Update: April Return for the 76ers MVP

Milwaukee Bucks: Doc Rivers vs. Adrian Griffin is a Tale of Two Styles

Offensive Rating:

Doc Rivers' Bucks: 12th
Adrian Griffin's Bucks: 2nd

Defensive Rating:

Doc Rivers' Bucks: 14th
Adrian Griffin's Bucks: 21st

Clearly the Milwaukee Bucks haven't quite found a recipe for success under the former LA Clippers head coach just yet. Doc Rivers' reign as head coach of the Bucks has been riddled with inconsistent play; leading him at times to call out his team for their poor play.  

Milwaukee has only gone 14-12 since Rivers took over. In 26 games, Milwaukee has had a 12th ranked offense and a 14th ranked defense.

It is clear the team is better in some areas under Rivers over Griffin, such as being a better defensive club; however, their offense has taken a massive dip.

Still, it's up in the air if the Milwaukee Bucks made the right choice bringing in a guy, who is more known for his lack of success in the postseason than a first time head coach finding his legs would be.  

Milwaukee Bucks: Doc Rivers Ahead of the Postseason 

The Milwaukee Bucks are currently playing a lot better at 11-5 post All-Star break, as they have been better offensively (ranked fourth in the league during this stretch), and are peaking at the right time.

The Bucks have gotten Khris Middleton back, who missed some time this season due to nagging  injuries. 

Now they look ahead to the NBA Playoffs where Giannis Antetokounmpo looks to capture his second NBA Championship. 

Still we must ask, can Doc Rivers fend off his demons of the postseason and lead the Milwaukee Bucks to promise land? 

Read More: NBA East Sixth Seed up for Grabs as We Head Closer to Playoffs

© 2023 Sportsworldnews.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Real Time Analytics