The 2021-22 NBA Season is officially here. It was just three months ago when the Milwaukee Bucks claimed the 2021 NBA title. The champs received their rings before Tuesday’s game, and they showed zero signs of a championship hangover.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks handled the Brooklyn Nets, 127-104. Khris Middleton and Pat Connaughton each pitched in 20 points in the winning effort. Unfortunately for the Bucks, Jrue Holiday exited the game early with a heel contusion. For the Nets, Kevin Durant’s 32 points and 11 rebounds weren’t enough to overcome the defending champs. James Harden added 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists of his own. Surprisingly, it was Patty Mills’ timely three-point shooting that kept the Nets in the game. Mills made 7 threes for 21 points off the bench. If one thing’s clear for Brooklyn, they’re gonna need Kyrie Irving if they want a shot at the title. The Bucks now travel to Miami on Thursday, and the Nets take on the drama-riddled 76ers on Friday.
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Steph Curry stole the show in the nightcap. The two-time MVP led the Warriors to a 121-114 victory over the Lakers. Curry scored his first triple-double since 2016 with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. But it was the Warriors pacing and ball movement that was paramount in the victory. As a team, the Warriors had 30 assists on 41 made shots. Jordan Poole built on an impressive preseason with 20 points starting alongside Curry in place of the injured Klay Thompson.
For the Lakers, a lack of bench production and a tough night for Russell Westbrook kept them from hitting their stride. LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 67 of the Lakers 114 points. Westbrook failed to put up double digits in any stat category with a mere 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. The Lakers bench was remarkably outscored in the loss, 55 to 29. Golden State will face the Clippers on Thursday, while the Lakers hope to rebound in a rematch with the Suns on Friday.
The NBA season rolls on tomorrow with a full slate of games. Let us know your predictions for the season in the comments below! Lastly, for more sports news from WavyPack, Gonzaga Ranked Number One in Preseason College Hoops Poll.
