Rivers Offers a Convenient Critique of Giannis Antetokounmpo as Heat Struggle
Rivers discusses coaching Giannis
Speaking with Bill Simmons, Rivers said Antetokounmpo was challenging to coach because of his fast downhill style and the adjustments needed to build an offense around him. He said the team’s spacing had to be right and that Antetokounmpo was less effective with the ball in his hands too much.
Rivers also said he liked Antetokounmpo as a roller, though the player did not favor that role. He pointed to Milwaukee’s success when Jrue Holiday or Khris Middleton handled the ball, and said it was difficult to find the right fit.
Kidd disputes the assessment
Jason Kidd, who coached Antetokounmpo earlier in his NBA career, rejected Rivers’ characterization of the player’s basketball understanding. Kidd said Antetokounmpo’s ability to drive downhill and make plays was a strength.
Antetokounmpo developed under Mike Budenholzer, not Rivers, and won two MVP awards and a Finals MVP. Kidd had given him the ball early in his career and let him play point guard at times.
Heat results add scrutiny
Antetokounmpo has averaged 27 points, 13 rebounds and six assists in the season described, but those numbers have not produced wins for Miami. The Heat began 3-6, and coach Erik Spoelstra has sought to use Antetokounmpo’s transition ability by increasing the team’s pace.
The article says that faster approach has coincided with worse-than-expected defense. Rivers praised Spoelstra’s focus on execution, while his past tendency to make excuses for team struggles has led some to view his remarks about Antetokounmpo skeptically.
Key points
- Rivers said Antetokounmpo’s pace, spacing needs and role make him difficult to coach.
- Jason Kidd disagreed with Rivers’ view of Antetokounmpo’s basketball IQ.
- Antetokounmpo averaged 27 points, 13 rebounds and six assists as Miami started 3-6.
- Spoelstra has tried to emphasize transition play, while the Heat’s defense has struggled.