"We don’t have that right now": Giannis Antetokounmpo takes aim at Doc Rivers after back-to-back defeats
Heading into this season, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks look to contend in the Eastern Conference. Following a shaky start, the former MVP had some choice words regarding his team and coach.
The Bucks started the year in the win column, taking down a shorthanded Philadelphia 76ers team. However, they have struggled since then. Milwaukee has dropped back-to-back games against young rebuilding teams. It recently suffered a double-digit loss to the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center.
After the Bucks were upset by the Nets, Antetokounmpo shared his thoughts on the team to start the year. One of his main issues is the group's lack of identity.
“Right now, we don’t have an identity,” Antetokounmpo said. “Like, how are we going to win the game? Are we going to defend for 48 minutes? Are we going to move the ball for 48 minutes? Are we going to attack and play fast for 48 minutes — or 36 minutes and slow down in the last 12? We gotta find an identity. We don’t have that right now.”
Since bringing in Doc Rivers to replace Adrian Griffin, the Bucks have been a mediocre team at best. Following its shaky mid-season start last year, Milwaukee struggles under its longtime coach. Things won't get any easier for the Bucks, as they take on the Boston Celtics in the second leg of a back-to-back.
Giannis Antetokounmpo cites areas of improvement for the Milwaukee Bucks
After voicing his frustrations about the Bucks' lack of identity, Antetokounmpo cited some areas where the team can improve.
"We have to be better. It doesn’t matter if it’s Game 1, Game 3, Game 50. We gotta keep coming together as a team," Giannis said. "Keep on taking care of the ball. Keep on being aggressive. Find ways to play faster. I think we’re too stagnant. We’re playing too slow. Find a way to play faster. In our run lanes, run. Create shots for our shooters."
While the Bucks have been struggling this season, Antetokounmpo is one of the top stars, averaging 28.3 points, 12.3 rebounds and 6.3 assists in the first three games. Giannis' best individual outing came against the Bulls, finishing with 38 points and 11 rebounds.
At the peak of his powers, Giannis looks to add to his already historic resumé. Based on how they've come out of the gates, the Bucks still have work to do to emerge as a contender.