Prior to Bucks-Nets Matchup, Giannis Antetokounmpo Claims Nobody in the World Can Stop Kevin Durant

The Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks are set to begin the 2021-22 NBA season as they lock horns in the season opener at Fiserv Forum. This is a highly anticipated matchup between the two bigwig eastern rosters. However, the spotlight will be on the duel between ‘the Greek freak’, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Brooklyn’s All-star Kevin Durant.

Both the teams will look to make a point after their last meeting in the 2021 Eastern Conference semifinals. The eventual champions defeated the Nets in a thrilling seven-game series. Despite Durant and co. leading 2-0 in the beginning, the Bucks managed to come out on top as the champions.

It’s Giannis Antetokounmpo vs Kevin Durant in the 2021-22 season opener

It’s time for another face-off between Antetokounmpo and Durant. Last postseason, both former MVPs put up fascinating performances for their respective teams. While Durant averaged 34.3 points in the playoffs, Giannis was contending on the MVP ladder.

Jun 7, 2021; Brooklyn, New York, USA;
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) tries to block a shot taken by Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) in the first quarter during game two in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

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Leaving aside the tenacity that these players exhibit on the court, Giannis and KD share pure respect for each other. Even after a head-to-head series last postseason, the Greek native didn’t shy away from appreciating the excellence of Kevin Durant. And yet again, before facing the 2-time NBA champion, Giannis has a few words for Durant.

During a press conference, Bucks’ star forward elaborated on how to restrict the ‘KD force’ –“We gotta do it as a team as nobody in the world can stop KD. One of the best players in the world. He scores the ball from everywhere…No matter who’s in front of him, he’s gotta see four other guys ready to defend him.”

This isn’t the first time Giannis Antetokounmpo has addressed KD as ‘one of the best players in the world’. Durant, a 2-time NBA Finals MVP, is in phenomenal form at the moment. Coming in healthy for the next season is a huge positive for KD and the Nets.

Irving’s absence will be a concern for the Nets

Well, as the Brooklyn Nets are shaping up, Nets will feel the fluctuating absence of their star player Kyrie Irving. But on the brighter side, Kevin Durant alongside James Harden is expected to be a lethal duo.

Mar 21, 2021; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets power forward Blake Griffin (2) reacts with shooting guard James Harden (13) during the fourth quarter against the Washington Wizards at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Additionally, the Nets have Blake Griffin, Bruce Brown Jr., and LaMarcus Aldridge to complete the starting five. It seems to be a strong side that has risen the hopes of Brooklyn fans for a championship this year. On the other hand, Giannis-led Milwaukee Bucks are coming back to defend the title.

Who will emerge victorious in this exciting season opener? Let us know in the comments.

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