JUST IN: Recently fired coach appeared to be criticizing Cavaliers big player Luka Doncic while praising him…..

Former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who was let go after the Cavaliers’ playoff exit, recently spoke positively about Luka Doncic’s performance during the NBA Finals despite injuries. On SiriusXM NBA Radio’s “The Starting Lineup,” Bickerstaff commended Doncic for playing through pain and enduring a chest contusion from Game 1 onwards. He emphasized the Mavericks star’s dedication and effort, suggesting he deserves recognition for his performance under challenging circumstances.

Bickerstaff contrasted Doncic’s approach with a possible jab at Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen, who missed the entire playoff series due to a rib injury. According to The Athletic, some Cavaliers were reportedly disappointed that Allen declined an injection to alleviate his pain and continue playing.