NBA Rumors: Doc Rivers Could Change Jobs After Missing Playoffs with Milwaukee Bucks

The era of Doc Rivers at the helm of the Milwaukee Bucks may be nearing its end. According to journalist Marc Stein, both the coach and the franchise could be heading towards a separation or, at the very least, a restructuring of his role after a season well below expectations.

The organization is already considering possible substitutes. Among the names that have emerged, the standout is Taylor Jenkins, former coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, who appears as one of the top candidates to take over the helm in Milwaukee. Rivers assumed the role midway through the 2023-24 season, following the dismissal of Adrian Griffin. Upon his arrival, he managed to guide the team to the playoffs, although the adventure ended in the first round against the Indiana Pacers.

In his first full season, the Bucks finished with a record of 48 wins and 34 losses, but suffered another first-round elimination, once again at the hands of Indiana. On that occasion, the Achilles tendon injury to Damian Lillard significantly impacted the team's performance.

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A Current Forgettable Season

The current season has marked an even greater setback. Milwaukee holds the eleventh position with a record of 31-47, missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade. Additionally, it will be the first season since 2015-16 in which the franchise fails to reach 40 wins.

The context has not been favorable for Rivers either. The coach has had to deal with numerous physical problems in the squad, including Lillard's serious injury last year and the recurring issues with Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has only played in 36 games this season. Nonetheless, Rivers' possible departure does not ensure an immediate solution to the team's problems. The Bucks' situation seems to be influenced by multiple factors, with the coach being just one piece in a much more complex scenario.