The highly anticipated duo of the 2023 offseason, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, has finally graced the court as the Milwaukee Bucks faced off against the Lakers in a preseason game.
This game provided them with the opportunity to play together as teammates for the first time since Dame’s trade to the Bucks. However, Giannis’ excitement was dampened by the Lakers’ game strategy, which he perceived as aimed at limiting Dame’s performance.
Giannis Left Far from Pleased with Lakers’ Tactics
The weekend had the Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks played in a preseason game. Giannis Antetokounmpo, who played with Damian Lillard for the first time since joining the team, found himself far from pleased with the Lakers’ defensive tactics, particularly their decision to double-team Damian Lillard right from the first play of the game.
Giannis expressed his frustration, according to a report by ClutchPoints, “I’ve never seen someone double-teamed on the 1st play of the game. It was a surprise. It’s a preseason game. Not a playoff game, not a regular season game, not an in-season tournament game, or a play-in game. It was a preseason game, and he was double-teamed. It’s insane.”
The Lakers’ aggressive defensive approach, orchestrated by coach Darvin Ham, set the tone for a game that revealed their commitment to becoming a top defensive team in the NBA, even in preseason. Although Giannis may not have welcomed this strategy, it emphasized the Lakers’ readiness to challenge opponents with unwavering defense in the upcoming season. The Lakers’ coach Darving Ham warned everyone about this duo saying, “Best of luck to everyone else. I’m just happy we only have to see them twice in the regular season.”
Giannis and Damian Played Their First Game Together for Bucks
In their first game as teammates, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard made a fast impact, helping the Milwaukee Bucks defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 108-97 on Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena. The two superstars played together for 37 minutes and combined for double-digit scoring as the Bucks earned their second victory in as many preseason contests.
Damian Lillard, who was acquired by the Bucks in a three-team deal from the Blazers, played for 22 minutes and contributed 14 points, two rebounds, two assists, and four steals. He made 3 of 10 field goals, including 2 of 7 from beyond the three-point line. Giannis Antetokounmpo played for just 15 minutes and finished with 16 points, shooting 7-for-10 from the field.
The Greek Freak also grabbed eight rebounds, recorded an assist, and blocked two shots. Giannis only played in the first half, while Lillard was substituted at the 4:41 mark of the third period, with the Bucks leading 74-66. The Bucks’ starting lineup included Brook Lopez, alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, Dame, Jae Crowder, and Malik Beasley.
Lopez contributed 11 points to the team’s effort. Cam Payne, Pat Connaughton, and Bobby Portis Jr. also scored in double figures coming off the bench, with the trio combining for 34 points. Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo did create the right awareness in the preseason game against the Lakers, which showcases what teams will be facing in the league this season.
