1. Rotations
This is my favorite. Not only is this criticism unjust, but it’s also common across nearly every fanbase. If you don’t believe the latter, check out Celtics or Warriors Reddit after a loss.
In general, this critique is about who and when Brown rotates guys in. What people don’t do, however, is give examples or alternatives, because there really aren’t any.
Despite how talented the starting five is, it’s not perfect by any means. Three of them have discernible weaknesses: Simmons can’t shoot, Embiid is a below-average 3-point shooter, and J.J. Redick is a poor defender at his age. Those flaws must be accounted for with every rotation Brown makes.
But what are his alternatives? Rookie Landry Shamet was the team’s best backup before the All-Star break. Now it’s either James Ennis III or Mike Scott. This team isn’t deep whatsoever, as evidenced by McConnell getting 15.9 minutes per game (since the Harris trade) and Boban Marjanovic becoming the team’s main backup center.
They’re both lovable players, but they’re also very flawed. Both are only good for certain matchups, yet an average of 7.8 minutes a game result in them sharing the floor.
That’s not a Brett Brown problem, that’s a roster problem. If people want to criticize his role in the construction of said roster, go ahead; he certainly has an influence, even after Elton Brand‘s promotion. But on the court, there’s not much he can truly work with.
Lest we forget, Markelle Fultz started the first 15 games of the season, and averaged 22.5 minutes per game overall. It doesn’t take a very high I.Q. to realize that wasn’t for basketball reasons.
Next time someone bashes Brett Brown, ask him or her for a better idea.