New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart and Milwaukee Bucks center Myles Turner host a podcast called "Game Recognize Game." On a recent episode, Turner revealed behind-the-scenes intel about the Bucks' dysfunction last season, specifically calling out former coach Doc Rivers and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Turner on Doc Rivers' Fine System
During a rapid-fire questions segment, Stewart asked Turner about NBA fine systems, referencing new Liberty coach Chris DeMarco's $25 penalties for missed free-throw box outs.
Turner explained how different coaches handle discipline: "Doc Rivers didn't fine anybody, ever. Guys were late all the time, guys were showing up to film whenever they wanted, guys were missing meetings. It was one of the craziest things I've personally ever experienced."
He contrasted this with other teams: "Any other team I've been on, guys got fined, and there was a sense of order and a sense of understanding. You're late to the plane? Fine. You're late to treatment? Fine. You're late to film? Fine."
Turner added that this was the first time in his career experiencing such lack of accountability, and he's now curious how new coach Taylor Jenkins will handle it.
Calling Out Giannis
When asked which teammate is most likely to be late, Turner didn't hesitate: "Giannis. Giannis is gonna show up whenever he wants, you know?"
He described the chaos: "If the plane took off at 2 o'clock, we weren't leaving until 4:30. Guys were hours late to the plane. It got to the point where I just knew not to show up until like an hour after they said the plane was taking off."
Turner said he eventually accepted it: "Hey man, more power to you. They ain't gonna fine you. Do what you do."
How the Dysfunction Affected the Bucks
The Bucks were a disaster last season. Giannis played a career-low 36 games due to various injuries, including multiple calf strains. It was the first time the team missed the playoffs since 2016.
Even when Giannis was healthy, the team went 17-19 and finished with the 10th-worst record in the league. The roster had talent but never performed like a contender.
Turner's behind-the-scenes observations help explain the on-court struggles. When players skip meetings, show up late and face no accountability, that carelessness naturally carries over to games. The Bucks ranked 26th in defensive rating (118.3) and 25th in turnover rate (15.4%).
"This is as toxic of a team situation as any in the league," a source told ESPN earlier this year.
What This Means for Giannis' Future
It's notable that Turner publicly called out Giannis, who has rarely faced criticism during his 13-year tenure with the Bucks. It's also hard to imagine Turner saying this about someone he'd be playing with next season.
This only adds credence to the idea that Antetokounmpo will be traded this summer. Earlier this month, Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam indicated a decision on the superstar's future is coming.