The Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks are regarded as the frontrunners in the Eastern Conference but after their game on Sunday, Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo wants everyone to think twice.
The Bucks lost to the Cavs by five points, 113-118, to have their first loss in three games this young season. The Greek Freak said he is not a fan of moral victories but he is praiseful of the effort they put up against a good team like the Cavs.
They came to the game without key players such as Kevin Porter Jr., Kyle Kuzma, and Cole Anthony. They went down by 18 point in the third quarter but managed to keep it close and undecided until the last shot clock.
Antetokounmpo feels proud for his team.
“It’s definitely one of the games, if you fight this hard, you want to leave this place with a win, and you can put in the back of your head that Kuzma, Scoot (Porter) and Cole were not playing tonight, and we were still able to be close in the game, but that’s not who we’re going to be this year,” he told reporters after the game.
“It doesn’t matter who plays. As long as you go out there, you’re going to give it everything you have, and this is who we’re going to be.
Giannis Antetokounmpo likes their chances
Antetokounmpo recorded 40 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists in that game, making him the third player in NBA history to post 100+ points, 40+ rebounds & 15+ assists in their first three games of the season.
There is something to celebrate about his individual stat but he is not focused on that. He does not feel bad about the loss but it only intensified his belief in his team. He believes they can go toe to toe with the best of the East with their effort on Monday.
“Obviously, the Cavs had the best record last year. If you were gonna put it down, they’re the one of the best teams in the East. In order for you to be one of the good teams and break through and do what you’re supposed to do, you gotta go through teams like that,” he said.
“Obviously, we think that the Cavs and probably the Knicks are one of the best teams in the East, but time will tell. Nothing’s guaranteed. Nothing’s given. They have to prove themselves.”
Giannis and company will return to Fiserv Forum on Tuesday to face the Knicks who currently sport a 2-1 record.
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