Frustrated With the Celtics Trade, Legendary Bucks Coach Favors Jrue Holiday Over Damian Lillard: “That’s What Wins Playoff Games”

The Damian Lillard trade has rattled the entire league. After his move to the Milwaukee Bucks to team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo, there has been lots of movement here and there. Jrue Holiday went from the Bucks to the Portland Trailblazers to the Boston Celtics in a matter of hours. Following this trade, there are a huge number of fans who are unhappy with letting Holiday go.

One of them happens to be a Hall of Fame coach, George Karl. Speaking about the trade, a frustrated Karl made a very compelling claim about Lillard and Holiday.

Former Bucks coach prefers Holiday over Damian Lillard

There was bound to be some discussion when the Bucks decided to go in for Lillard by giving up Jrue Holiday. After all, he is one of the best defenders in the league and was a crucial part of the Bucks’ 2021 title winning team.

Now that he has joined the Boston Celtics, experts and fans on the internet favor them over the Bucks to lift the NBA title next season. Not only the fans, but even a Hall of Famer coach shares the same notion.

George Karl, who spent five seasons with the Bucks, recently chimed in on the debate. When asked whether the Bucks would miss Holiday during the playoffs, Karl said, “I agree 100%. I talked to someone last night about it”.

He further expanded on his thoughts. According to Karl, although Lillard might have the advantage of statistics with him, Holiday’s ‘intangibles’ win playoff games.

“But, to be honest with you, in the playoffs, Holiday might be better than Lillard. And I know that statistically won’t prove out but the intangibles that Holiday brings to the game, that’s what wins playoff games. The little things”, said the legendary NBA coach.

He also mentioned how Jrue Holiday has improved his offense over the past season. For this reason, the Celtics might finally get their hands on their first NBA title since 2008.

Who has the better playoff stats between Holiday and Lillard?

Damian Lillard had a very successful time individually with the Portland Trailblazers. However, his individual numbers did not amount to anything as the 7-time All-Star has no silverware.

He has played in 61 playoff games averaging 25.7 points, 6.2 assists and 4.5 rebounds. His biggest achievement came in 2019 when he made the Western Conference Finals.

READ MORE: “This One Hurt”: Hours After Celtics’ Shocking Jrue Holiday Acquisition, Jayson Tatum Bids Farewell to 25YO “Dawg 4L” Teammate

On the other hand, Holiday has made the playoffs in all three seasons with the Bucks. Moreover, he has also made the playoffs with the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Orleans Pelicans in the past. The 2021 NBA champion has a playoff average of  17.5 points, 6.9 assists and 5.2 rebounds.

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Do you agree with George Karl? Let us know in the comments below.