Assistant Coach Joe Prunty Takes the Reins as Interim Coach for Milwaukee Bucks
In a surprising turn of events, the Milwaukee Bucks have parted ways with head coach Adrian Griffin after just 43 games into the 2023-24 NBA season. This decision comes despite the team’s impressive 30-13 record, which currently places them as the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
General Manager Jon Horst expressed the difficulty of this mid-season coaching change, emphasizing the team’s immediate focus on securing a new head coach. He commended Griffin for his contributions and hard work during his tenure.
The interim coaching duties will be assumed by veteran assistant Joe Prunty, who brings a wealth of experience to the role. A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday before the Bucks’ home game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where Horst will address the media.
Defensive Struggles Plague Bucks Under Griffin’s Leadership
One of the primary factors contributing to Griffin’s dismissal is the Bucks’ significant defensive decline this season. Under his guidance, the team has plummeted from being among the league’s top five defenses in pick-and-roll and drive defense last year to languishing in the bottom 10 this season.
This defensive regression is evident in several key metrics. For instance, the Bucks have conceded an alarming 24th-ranked 3.8 points per direct pick, a stark contrast to their third-ranked 2.6 points allowed in the previous season. Similarly, they have dropped from second to 20th in points allowed per direct drive, surrendering 1.16 points compared to 0.99 last year.
High Expectations and Pressure to Succeed
The Bucks’ decision to hire Griffin last summer was driven by the desire to replace longtime coach Mike Budenholzer, who was let go following Milwaukee’s disappointing first-round playoff exit. However, the franchise’s ambitions were further amplified when they executed a blockbuster trade to acquire superstar point guard Damian Lillard, intensifying the pressure to deliver a championship this season.
Despite their impressive record, the Bucks have exhibited inconsistencies, particularly on the defensive end. Their recent back-to-back losses against the Detroit Pistons, where they conceded 135 and 113 points, respectively, served as a stark reminder of their defensive vulnerabilities.
Griffin’s Coaching Career and Assistant Experience
Prior to his brief stint as head coach of the Bucks, Griffin spent 16 seasons as an NBA assistant coach, including the last five with the Toronto Raptors. His extensive coaching experience is complemented by his nine-year playing career in the NBA.
Bucks’ Search for a New Head Coach: Doc Rivers Emerges as Top Target
The Bucks are reportedly wasting no time in their pursuit of a new head coach, with their sights set on a select group of accomplished and available veteran coaches. Among the potential candidates, Doc Rivers stands out as the primary target, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The Bucks have already reached out to Rivers and are engaged in discussions regarding the vacant coaching position.
Conclusion
The Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to part ways with Adrian Griffin as head coach marks a significant development in the NBA landscape. The team’s impressive record notwithstanding, their defensive struggles and the heightened expectations following the acquisition of Damian Lillard ultimately led to Griffin’s dismissal. The Bucks’ search for a new head coach is already underway, with Doc Rivers emerging as the frontrunner. The appointment of a new coach will undoubtedly shape the Bucks’ trajectory for the remainder of the season and beyond.