Giannis Antetokounmpo led the defending champions Milwaukee Bucks over the Brooklyn Nets (127-104) in their regular season debut. In the challenge between two of the main candidates for the title, the Greek basketball player finished with 32 points, 14 rebounds and seven assists, satisfied with how the Nets focused on the match immediately after the ceremony of the rings. "We were all thrilled to receive the rings and to see our banner hoisted and it was a bit difficult to concentrate to go and play the game. But I think we did a great job." Brooklyn debuted without Kyrie Irving, left out of lineup due to his refusal to get vaccinated against Covid-19, a choice that makes it impossible for him to participate in home games in New York, where those who are not immunized do not play. In his absence,Kevin Durant led the Nets scorers with 32 points, followed by James Harden with 20.
Defeat for the Los Angeles Lakers to the Golden State Warriors at the Staples Center for 121-114. James was the most prolific Lakers scorer with 34 points, followed by Anthony Davis at 33. But only they, among the Lakers, made it to double digits, with new signing Russell Westbrook holding eight points, five rebounds. and four assists.
Among the Warriors, Stephen Curry shone with 21 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists: his first triple double since 2016.
"This is a great feeling," Curry said.
"We have a lot of enthusiasm for this season thanks also to the new entries in our historic group."
Six Warriors players made double figures, with Jordan Poole just behind Curry with 20 points.
The Lakers led 59-53 at half time, but were then overtaken by the Warriors.
Lakers manager Frank Vogel said his side was still in development, but was heartened by James and Davis' points.