In a surprising move during the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent matchup against the Boston Celtics, Kyle Kuzma remained on the bench without playing a single minute, despite expectations that he would fill in with Giannis Antetokounmpo returning from injury. The decision came from head coach Doc Rivers during the game held in Milwaukee, leaving fans and analysts puzzled over Kuzma’s absence on the court.
Kuzma’s Recent Performance and the Bucks’ Struggles
Kyle Kuzma had shown solid form in the previous games, averaging 16 points, nearly four rebounds, and close to three assists per game over the last four contests. With Giannis back, Kuzma was expected to shift roles but still contribute, especially against a Celtics squad missing star Jaylen Brown. Instead, the Bucks suffered a defeat without allowing Kuzma any opportunity to impact the game, an unusual choice given his improving productivity.
The Bucks have faced significant challenges recently, losing their last three games by a total margin of 78 points. This slump comes after a strong run where Milwaukee won eight of ten games. Coach Rivers addressed the team’s current state, emphasizing the need to focus on how the team plays rather than point deficits.
“I don’t care about the points. I just care about how we’re playing. We were playing great, and we’ve kind of lost our way and I think it’s on both ends. I think offensively, we had a great rhythm and we’ve done it in spurts in the last three games, but we haven’t been able to sustain it.”
– Doc Rivers, Head Coach
Looking Ahead: Bucks’ Upcoming Matchup and Implications
The Bucks will next face the Atlanta Hawks on March 4, a game that could provide insights into how the team addresses its recent difficulties. With the team’s form faltering, questions remain about the roles of key players like Kuzma and how Rivers’ coaching decisions will evolve going forward. Observers will be watching closely to see if Kuzma returns to active play and how the team adjusts to return to its earlier winning ways.
Bucks coach Doc Rivers said Kyle Kuzma not playing tonight was a coach’s decision.
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) March 3, 2026
