Same Dame, Still Ticking ⏱️

10/27/2023

By: Jeff Yoder

Damian Lillard (39 Points) Shines in Milwaukee Debut; Kevin Durant (39 Points) Also Goes Off, But LeBron Gets Last Laugh

Not that anyone really thought Damian Lillard would lose a step, but just to make sure, he didn’t. Dame Time made a splash in his Milwaukee debut on Thursday, leading Bucks with 39 points and a dagger 3 in the final moments of a win against the 76ers (118-117). His signature step-back put the Bucks in control when it mattered most. Lillard finished 9-for-20 and a perfect 17-for-17 from the free-throw line. Giannis Antetokounmpo added 23 points and 13 boards, and the Bucks look scary good. Philadelphia got 31 points from Tyrese Maxey as they try to fill the void — and answer the questions — of James Harden’s absence. More coming. But for now, Dame Time and the Greek Freak are 1-0.

 

Watch: Lillard Drops 39 in Bucks Win Over 76ers (118-117)

 

Durant Makes History But LeBron & Lakers Top Suns

In Thursday’s nightcap of a primetime doubleheader, the Lakers and Suns met for a West Coast showdown between two legends. Kevin Durant scored 39 points to pass Hakeem Olajuwon for 12th on the all-time scoring list (26,947 points). He led the shorthanded Suns — without Devin Booker or Bradley Beal — but LeBron James  (23-9-8) got the last laugh at home, scoring two driving layups in the final minutes to seal the win (100-95). It’s quite ridiculous what LeBron can still do at 38 years old in Year 21. I still have Michael Jordan as the G.O.A.T., but MJ wasn’t doing this at 38. Both the Lakers and Suns are 1-1 to start the season.

 

Watch: KD Drops 39, But LeBron & Lakers Get Last Laugh (100-95)

 

Photo: Patrick McDermott / Getty Images