The Milwaukee Bucks, led by coach Doc Rivers, felt that some of their players were already in holiday mode, which is why they were unable to overcome a struggling and exhausted opponent.
After the Bucks’ humiliating 110-113 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday, Rivers questioned the team’s focus. Under the seasoned coach, Milwaukee’s record dropped to 3-7 following the disheartening loss.Given that the Bucks were unable to stop a Memphis team that was without key players like Marcus Smart, Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., Rivers was clearly not impressed with Milwaukee’s defensive effort. The first half ended with a 57-57 draw between the two teams, but the Bucks collapsed in the third quarter and were outscored 37-28.Only 47 seconds remained in the third, and Rivers called for a timeout because he was so dissatisfied with Milwaukee’s effort. Doc clarified that he noticed the Bucks trailing early in the third quarter on both ends and that’s why he called the short timeout.
“Two guys lost track of what we’re doing.” After we missed the shot, nobody returns. We begin the third quarter in this manner. Doc remarked, “That tells you everything you need to know about where our heads were.”
Doc once more preaches defence.
With back-to-back victories over the Denver Nuggets (112-95) and Charlotte Hornets (120-84), the Bucks demonstrated an improved defensive effort. Milwaukee’s recent success was short-lived as they lost to the Grizzlies and the Miami Heat (97–123) right when things were looking well.
