Nov 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Milwaukee Bucks head coach Scott Skiles looks on during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center. The Timberwolves defeated the Bucks 95-85. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

According to the Associated Press, Bucks general manager John Hammond has confirmed that Scott Skiles is out as the coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, as part of a mutual decision. Assistant coach Jim Boylan will step in as the interim coach for the rest of the season.

The Milwaukee Bucks have been a little up and down this season, but are still holding the 7th spot in the Eastern Conference with a 16-16 record.

One of the reasons for Skiles’ departure is believed to be the fact that the team is built around two volume shooting guards in Monta Ellis and Brandon Jennings. Despite the fact that the two guards are often considered to be liabilities on defense, Skiles had this Milwaukee team playing better defense this season.

A huge contributor to the improved defense has been Larry Sanders, who is having a breakout season, leading the league in blocks (3.1 per game).

This is quite likely not the last tough decision the front office of the Bucks will have to face before the trade deadline, as Monta Ellis has a player option for next season, giving him the opportunity to leave Milwaukee for nothing if he so pleases.

Skiles is not the first head coach to be relieved of his duties this season, as the Lakers parted ways with Mike Brown and the Nets lost their patience with Avery Johnson earlier this season.

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