The Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers are set for an intriguing showdown as they kick off their respective seasons. The Bucks’ new addition, seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard, will make his debut, while the 76ers will be missing their disgruntled star James Harden.
Damian Lillard Ready for Bucks Debut as James Harden’s 76ers Absence Continues
Lillard, who was acquired by the Bucks in a three-team trade with the Portland Trail Blazers, is eager to start his journey with his new team. The 33-year-old guard had an outstanding season in 2022-23, averaging a franchise-record 32.2 points per game, the third-highest in the league. Lillard’s accolades include being named one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players of all time and winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2012-13. He holds the record for the most points (19,376) and 3-point field goals (2,387) in the history of the Trail Blazers.
Lillard expressed his excitement about joining the Bucks and the opportunity to win. He acknowledged the talent of his new teammate, two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who recently signed a lucrative contract extension. Lillard understands the importance of his role alongside Antetokounmpo and believes that their partnership can elevate the team’s performance.
The Bucks had an impressive regular season last year, finishing with the best record in the NBA. However, their championship aspirations were cut short in the playoffs, with a first-round exit at the hands of the Miami Heat. As a result, they replaced head coach Mike Budenholzer with Adrian Griffin, who takes charge for the first time in his career.
On the other side, the 76ers faced a similar fate in the playoffs, being eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals for the third consecutive year. They made a coaching change, hiring Nick Nurse, the former head coach of the Toronto Raptors, who led them to an NBA title in 2019.
As the 76ers prepare for their season opener against the Bucks, they will have to cope with the absence of James Harden. Harden has been away from the team for personal reasons, and although he reported to the Philadelphia facility, he is not expected to play. The 10-time All-Star has expressed his desire to be traded, citing irreparable differences with team president Daryl Morey.
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In Harden’s absence, 22-year-old Tyrese Maxey is expected to step up as the lead guard. Maxey showcased his potential last season, averaging 20.3 points per game. His primary task will be to distribute the ball to Joel Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP. Embiid led the league in scoring for the second consecutive year, putting up impressive numbers in points, rebounds, assists, and blocks.
The clash between the Bucks and the 76ers promises to be an exciting start to the season, with Lillard’s debut with Milwaukee and the absence of Harden adding an extra layer of intrigue. As both teams aim to make a deep playoff run, the outcome of this game could set the tone for their campaigns.
