The NBA is back. Kevin Durant too.
It’s been over 560 days since Durant last hit the track for an NBA game, but he wasted no time making his presence felt, scoring, or assisting on 10 of the Brooklyn Nets’ first 13 points in a 125-99 opening night defeat. from his former team, the Golden State Warriors.
It wouldn’t get much easier for Stephen Curry & Co.
On the other hand, it’s only been 71 days since the Los Angeles Lakers secured their 17th NBA Championship, while the LA Clippers were humiliated in September. The Lakers are ready to repeat, and the Clippers are seeking redemption.
Well, all the Lakers repeated on Tuesday-evening was a season-opening loss to the Clippers, as Paul George scored 33 points in a 116-109 game.
Our ESPN Insiders examine what matters most about the Nets’ opening night demolition of the Warriors, including the best moments of Durant’s return and why the rest of the Eastern Conference should be very scared right now, while also offering perspective on the spoiled ring of the Clippers. night for the Lakers.