The Milwaukee Bucks continue to lose games and head coach Doc Rivers is now trying to get inspiration from almost anyone to rally the team.
The latest was a story about Boston Celtics legendary coach Red Auerbach who preached about hustle and protecting the possession.
Red Auerbach
Unknown Date; Boston, MA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Boston Celtics former head coach Red Auerbach coacher next to former player John Havlicek and former trainer Buddy LeRoux during a game at the Boston Garden in Boston, MA. Mandatory Credit: Dick Raphael-USA TODAY Sports Copyright © Dick Raphael
The Bucks had the chance to apply that when they went back to Fiserv Forum on Sunday but Auerbach’s words might have not made such an impact as the team lost to the Atlanta Hawks by giving up 145 points against their 124.
Kyle Kuzma has a hilarious, and also worrying reaction post-game about that Rivers and Auerbach story.
“We didn’t listen well I guess as a team,” he said.
Giannis Antetokounmpo finished with his usual numbers as he posted 31 points, nine rebounds, and five assists.
Kuzma had 25 while Kevin Porter Jr. has 28 points, four rebounds, and five assists off the bench.
Kyle Kuzma, Milwaukee Bucks
Mar 30, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) shoots during warmups prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
It felt like Kuzma and KPJ had a breakout game based on their total points but the main problem was their defense as like in the loss to the Knicks, the Hawks has more attempt, 94 vs 82.
They also had more offensive rebounds, 15 against six.
Milwaukee Bucks missing key people and it shows
Antetokounmpo has been preaching aggressiveness ever since they start the season at 2-8 back in November.
It cannot be denied though that the guys they are missing are the ones who can solve their woes.
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Apr 26, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) sits on the bench after a 128-126 loss to the Miami Heat during game five of the 2023 NBA Playoffs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
They have been out-rebounded in the last two games and main factor to that is the absence of Jericho Sims and Brook Lopez (almost 14 in total per game). Brook Lopez also has to sit out for a stretch and they are forced to use the Greek Freak at five.
They also have less possessions and lack of aggressiveness, something that Damian Lillard (24.9 ppg) can provide. However, he is out indefinitely due to a scary DVT.
Rivers said he still has confidence in his team and the guys should show that on the hardcourt.
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