Bucks cut ties with Krystkowiak; begin search for new coach

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Milwaukee Bucks’ General Manager John Hammonds says he’s looking for a strong leader as the team’s new coach.

Hammonds fired Larry Krystkowiak Thursday, one day after the Bucks finished their season 26-56.

The new general manager told reporters he was already identifying replacements. He said it was best not to waste time and if he has to oversell the job to somebody, he’s probably the wrong man.

Media reports say the Bucks are pursuing former Chicago Bulls’ coach Scott Skiles.

Other potential candidates are former Detroit and Indiana coach Rick Carlisle, and veteran coaches Larry Brown and Jeff Van Gundy.

Center Andrew Bogut said a veteran coach would help the Bucks improve and he said the players would have to buy into his system.

Otherwise, “It doesn’t matter if we hire Phil Jackson, it’s going to be the same thing,” said Bogut.

Guard Michael Redd says he’s trying not to look back. He believes there are great things ahead for the organization.

Chinese import Yi Jianlian said he enjoyed playing for Krystkowiak in his first American pro basketball season. Yi called Krystkowiak a hard-working coach who was good to him.

Tags: wisconsin_sports, basketball, milwaukee_bucks