Bucks Eyeing Top Assistant Coaches to Replace Doc Rivers

Taylor Jenkins and Micah Nori emerge as leading candidates to take over in Milwaukee

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, representing the tactical complexity of coaching in the NBA.A cubist interpretation of the strategic chess match between coaches vying to lead the Bucks back to championship contention.Today in Milwaukee

The Milwaukee Bucks are facing a pivotal offseason after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time in nine years. Head coach Doc Rivers is under intense pressure, and there are rumors he may part ways with the organization. If the Bucks do move on from Rivers, they are eyeing two top assistant coaches as potential replacements: Taylor Jenkins of the Memphis Grizzlies and Micah Nori of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Why it matters

The Bucks' next head coaching hire will be crucial in determining the future of the franchise and superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo's championship window. The team needs a coach who can quickly stabilize the roster, shore up the defense, and maximize the diverse talent on the roster.

The details

Jenkins and Nori have emerged as the top candidates to replace Rivers. Jenkins has head coaching experience with the Grizzlies, leading them to three straight playoff appearances in the tough Western Conference. He also has prior experience working as an assistant with the Bucks, giving him valuable inside knowledge of the organization. Nori, meanwhile, is regarded as a tactical mastermind and elite defensive mind, attributes the Bucks desperately need after a dismal defensive season. Both coaches would bring a fresh voice and modern approach that could help revitalize the Bucks.

  • The Bucks missed the playoffs for the first time in 9 years during the 2025-26 season.
  • Rumors have swirled that Doc Rivers and the Bucks organization may part ways this offseason.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Bucks' superstar player whose championship window the team must maximize with the right coaching hire.

Taylor Jenkins

The former Memphis Grizzlies head coach who has prior experience as a Bucks assistant, making him a leading candidate to replace Doc Rivers.

Micah Nori

The highly respected Minnesota Timberwolves assistant coach known for his elite defensive mind and tactical expertise, another top candidate for the Bucks job.

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What’s next

The Bucks will need to act quickly this offseason to identify their next head coach, with both Jenkins and Nori emerging as top candidates to replace the embattled Doc Rivers.

The takeaway

The Bucks' next coaching hire will be crucial in determining the future of the franchise and Giannis Antetokounmpo's championship window. Both Jenkins and Nori offer unique strengths that could help revitalize the team, with Jenkins providing head coaching experience and Nori bringing elite tactical and defensive expertise.