The Milwaukee Bucks may not be there yet, but they’re headed in the right direction. Despite the 3-5 record the team has under new head coach Doc Rivers, veteran forward Pat Connaughton commends the Bucks for focusing on the things that need to improve.
During a recent media session, Connaughton emphasized that while their record may not be where they want it to be, the team is solely focused on making progress each day.
Adjustment period
Connaughton acknowledged that with a new coach comes a period of adjustment for players and coaches alike. However, he believes the Bucks have what it takes to adapt quickly and continue building upon their success under previous coach Adrian Griffin, who steered the team to a 30-13 record before Doc took over.
In the two weeks since Doc got the reins to the Bucks, the team has suffered deflating losses to Portland, Utah, and Minnesota. Through those setbacks, Connaughton noted that the team has remained resilient and used each game as a learning experience.
"For us, it’s all about getting better each day, so if it’s been two weeks, it’s not something I think guys really have thought about. It’s not something guys have realized. We’ve been so focused on trying to get better, trying to all get on the same page,” Connaughton shared.
Installed structure
Rivers did not reinvent the wheel in Milwaukee, but he has implemented fundamental changes that have helped the team improve. One of the most significant changes is their increased focus on defense, resulting in back-to-back wins wherein they held their opponents to under 100 points.
"He’s done a great job of putting in structure, putting in and simplifying some of the things that we’ve already done, some things we already do well, as well as adding some things that I think will help us in the long run," Connaughton continued.
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