Jacque Vaughn stands firm in resting key players vs. Bucks

Despite the uproar and criticisms he endured, Jacque Vaughn stands steadfast in his decision to rest the majority of his players against the Milwaukee Bucks.

In the pre-game of their Friday road showcase against the Washington Wizards, Vaughn insisted that he made that decision in the best interest of the team.

“You guys know I’m pretty honest with you guys across the board,” Vaughn said. “And for me, that’s the inner peace that I have that can go home. … My ideal world of communication is that I present the information to you, I’m upfront with it. And I’m not just talking about [reporters]. I’m talking about players when I have the communication with them — and that they understand I have to make a choice, and the choice will be made.”

Mikal didn't agree with Jacque

Facing multiple injuries ahead of a four-game road trip, Vaughn opted to rest Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, Cam Johnson, and Nic Claxton. Meanwhile, the trio of Mikal Bridges, Royce O’Neale, and Cam Thomas didn't return to the game after the first quarter.

This move didn't sit well with fans, with Mikal, who prides himself as the league's iron man, also criticizing Vaughn's decision.

“I get in there to play the game and because I want to go out there and win. I don’t go in there to just sub in, get the streak, and whatever. I just want to play,” Bridges said.

Keeping it transparent

The Brooklyn Nets head coach didn't reveal whether he talked with Bridges about the said matter. However, he argued that the message he sent to the entire team had been clear.

“It’s just like with my kids, though. That doesn’t mean you always have to agree. And so the communication is what I want and understand that I have to make a choice. And that’s my position as the head coach. But just like my kids doesn’t mean you have to agree with a decision," Vaughn said.

The Bucks beat the Nets 144-122, with Jalen Wilson putting up a team-high 21 points.