Doc Rivers finally responded to the criticism that he has been subjected to by JJ Reddick. To those who might not be aware, Reddick is a former NBA star who has become an important member of the media after retiring from the league. On the other hand, Rivers is a well-known NBA coach and spent last season coaching the Milwaukee Bucks.
Since JJ is no longer a player but is well-versed in the workings of the league, his input as a member of the media is valued and given a fair amount of attention. Reddick called out Doc Rivers a while ago and brought a fair amount of scrutiny upon the veteran coach. Rivers recently responded with his own criticism and opinions. As a result, fans remain divided on this current situation between both of them.
JJ Reddick called out Doc Rivers for his recent struggles with the Milwaukee Bucks
Fans will know that this season did not go too well for the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite bringing in Damian Lillard at the start of the season and hiring Doc Rivers halfway through, the team ended up being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Indiana Pacers.
Since the Bucks started off the season with a 30-13 record and did not improve or maintain their winning pace while being coached by Doc Rivers, their quick exit from the playoffs also brought on a lot of criticism. JJ Reddick was one of the media members who criticized Rivers and pointed out that Rivers simply refuses to take any form of accountability and is always looking to blame others for his lack of success as a coach.
Doc fires back at JJ Redick
“JJ Redick best numbers of his career was under one coach and you’re looking at him. I’m the one who grabbed him out of Milwaukee and decided to start him. From that point on, his career took off”👀
(h/t @BASKETBALLonX )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 14, 2024
Over this season, there is no denying that Doc blamed the players on the Bucks a lot more when compared to his own lack of coaching. Since the Bucks’ coach is not known to let things slide without having a response, he discussed JJ Reddick and took a personal jab at the former NBA star.
Doc Rivers responded by claiming that he developed JJ Reddick as a starter in the NBA
While virtually attending Stephen A. Smith’s show, Doc Rivers pointed out that JJ was speaking from bias and a sense of dislike. He went on to claim that Reddick only became a starter in the league after joining the Los Angeles Clippers when Rivers was still coaching them.
Upon hearing this, the majority of fans sided with JJ Reddick, “Love JJ but Doc fried him.” Some even pointed out that Reddick had some of the best years of his career after leaving the Clippers and joining the Philadelphia 76ers.
Love JJ but Doc fried him
— D (@DRaps04) May 14, 2024
Fact Check: JJ Redick’s 2 best scoring seasons were with Philadelphia after he left Doc Rivers pic.twitter.com/huZDR0xdsB
— ZubacSZN (@213clipset) May 14, 2024
In any case, it is clear that there is some form of beef and conflict between JJ Reddick and Doc Rivers. Since Rivers is still in the NBA while Reddick is now a member of the media, there is really no way for them to find a middle ground and come to a conclusion.