Milwaukee Bucks Grades, Reactions From 129-118 Loss To Sacramento Kings

Nov 25, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks players hold back head coach Jason Kidd who was ejected from the game during the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Reactions: The Bad

• I totally understand Jason Kidd’s ejection. Not playing defense for a solid 48 minutes is beyond annoying–it’s infuriating. You expected the defense to get better after giving up 40 points in the first quarter. And on some levels it did–the Kings next-highest scoring quarter was a 33 point fourth. But the nature of the Kings field goal percentage is inexcusable. As a team the Kings shot 70.1% on two point attempts. Alarming, to say the least.

• The Kings made some tough shots, sure–but it felt like they could get whatever shot they wanted whenever they wanted it. That would have never happened with last year’s team. What’s changed? MCW couldn’t stay in front of Rajon Rondo to save his life, Copeland shouldn’t even take the floor, and when the Bucks needed a strong defensive showing they would collapse and commit a dumb foul–leading to 37 King’s FT attempts. To make things clear this WAS an effort issue. The Bucks looked disinterested defensively all night. I understand the “new pieces” argument, but the Bucks NEVER looked bored on defense last year…

So, here we are at this Vine once again: Jason Kidd cracking. I wouldn’t be surprised if it leads to a suspension. I also wouldn’t be surprised if it serves as a wake-up call to the entire team. The time to start playing with passion every night is now. Perhaps it will signify a change in mentality. Perhaps that’s just the optimist in me.

Next: Grades: Starters