Taylor Jenkins Calls Out Bucks’ Rebounding Problems After Seventh Straight Loss

Taylor Jenkins’ concerns after Milwaukee’s latest loss went beyond the final score. The Bucks coach pointed to rebounding as a problem affecting his team’s defense, offensive rhythm and ability to establish a consistent style.

Milwaukee fell to 1-10 after Tuesday’s 117-85 loss to the New York Knicks. The defeat extended its losing streak to seven games and left Jenkins discussing familiar issues with little time before Wednesday’s matchup against the Lakers.

The coach credited New York’s ability to pursue offensive rebounds from multiple positions. But he also made clear that Milwaukee needs a better response.

“We just got to do better,” Jenkins said. “We’ve had this struggle the last couple of games. It’s really hurt us.”

Jenkins explained that the damage extends beyond the points opponents score after retrieving their misses. Additional defensive possessions require more movement, increase physical demands and delay Milwaukee’s opportunities to attack.

“It only led to 11 second-chance points, but it just beats you down and then you can’t play your style of basketball on the offensive side,” Jenkins said.

He also connected those extended possessions to fouls. Milwaukee must defend another action each time it fails to secure the ball, creating another opportunity for a mistake.

The responsibility belongs to the entire lineup. When a big man contests a shot, guards and wings must help account for opponents moving toward the basket.

Finishing those possessions would give Milwaukee a better chance to advance the ball before the opposing defense gets organized. It would also prevent solid initial defense from being wasted.

Jenkins offered a more positive assessment of Kel’el Ware, particularly his activity and involvement during the third quarter. The coach said Ware applied details they had discussed individually.

“I thought he had a good impact on the game,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins highlighted Ware’s screen setting and ability to help facilitate the offense. Those contributions can create opportunities even when the center does not finish the possession himself.

A well-positioned screen can force a defender to recover. A timely pass afterward can help Milwaukee maintain an advantage instead of restarting its offense.

The next step is sustaining those habits throughout Ware’s minutes. Jenkins described the encouraging stretch as something to build upon while emphasizing the team’s need for complete performances.

The coach also acknowledged his responsibility for finding combinations that produce more dependable basketball. He mentioned starters, bench groups and substitution patterns among the areas under evaluation.

“I got to find something that’s going to build consistency for us,” Jenkins said.

That means identifying players who execute Milwaukee’s priorities together. Familiarity between teammates helps, but each lineup still needs clear responsibilities and reliable communication.

The Bucks must also respond better when opponents make runs. Avoiding early deficits and limiting breakdowns would give their offense more manageable circumstances.

Milwaukee has shown productive stretches, including the chemistry Jenkins noticed with Ware. Turning those stretches into repeatable habits remains the challenge as the losses accumulate.