Scoreboard
Bucks 90, Sixers 88
Clippers 103, Lakers 97
What went down
Heading into this game, the Bucks-Sixers matchup seemed like a preview of this season's East finals. Both teams are highly touted as the two best teams in their conference, and today, they gave us a glimpse of how intense it would be if they both met in a seven-game series.
The Bucks, of course, were missing Khris Middleton, but two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who ended with 21-13-8 and 3 blocks, was more than willing to steer Milwaukee on offense. For most of the game, the Bucks were in control, gaining a lead as high as 13. But the Sixers went on a 13-0 run late in the fourth, even taking the lead on a James Harden jumper with less than two minutes left.
But in the end, it was a game-clinching 3 from Wesley Matthews that gave the Bucks their first win.
WESLEY MATTHEWS CLUTCH pic.twitter.com/MrkKL3ylsq
— NBA TV (@NBATV) October 21, 2022
The Sixers are now 0-2 to start the season. Not actually ideal for a team that has title aspirations. But yes, it's still early right?
Out West in the Battle of Los Angeles, the Clippers had six players score in double digits as they outdueled the Lakers—also 0-2—in their season debut.
Big-time baller
One bright spot in the Sixers' loss was getting another great performance from Harden.
The Beard unloaded 31 points (54% FG), eight rebounds, and nine assists. He also had two steals and one block.
yes, these are two different plays believe it or not. pic.twitter.com/icRy5TISz1
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) October 21, 2022
If Harden can maintain these kinds of numbers, it won't be long until the Sixers finally get on the winning side of things.
What he said
In his address to the crowd in https://t.co/ztbLfGc8H2 Arena ahead of the Lakers home opener, Patrick Beverley declares: "We're going to the playoffs!”
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) October 21, 2022
For now, we'll keep this as a receipt.
But I guess for the Lakers to make the playoffs, they'll need to listen to everything Patrick Beverley is preaching, right?
🔊 Pat Bev mic'd up is GOLD! pic.twitter.com/iBxoTPsRgM
— NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2022
Did you see that?
Here's one for good vibes: Kawhi Leonard playing in his first game since June 2021.
THE KLAW IS BAAAAAACK!
Kawhi is back! #KiaTipOff22
— NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2022
The return of The Klaw Live now on TNT pic.twitter.com/nYpPn7zzgO
You know what else is back? Inside the NBA! That means another season of fun banter from these four.
Chuck: “Gregg Popovich, one of the greatest coaches ever, said something to me one time..."
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) October 21, 2022
Kenny: "Stop eating?" 💀 pic.twitter.com/eMfT7veW2v
