Giannis Antetokounmpo Says Kevin Durant Is The Best Player In The World

Giannis Antetokounmpo had high praises for Kevin Durant after losing Game 5, 114-108. The two-time MVP called Durant "the best player in the world right now." These comments are fresh off of Durant's herculean performance, in which he dropped 49 points, 17 rebounds and 10 assists. 

Despite lauding Durant for his heroics, Antetokounmpo says that he is ready to defend the two-time Finals MVP in Game 6. "I want to take the challenge," Antetokounmpo told reporters post-game when asked about guarding Durant.

Giannis Antetokounmpo on Kevin Durant: "He's the best player in the world right now."

— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) June 16, 2021

"I want to take the challenge"

Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to guard Kevin Durant in Game 6 pic.twitter.com/MmKIYHqcYZ

— Nets Videos (@SNYNets) June 16, 2021

Antetokounmpo's night paled in comparison to Durant's. He put up 34 points — on 14-for-22 from the field — and 12 rebounds, but missed multiple free throws down the stretch and fumbled a crucial pass from Middleton in the dire seconds of the game.

Switching the former Defensive Player of The Year onto Durant is an adjustment many thought should have been made during the game. It's also a conversation reminiscent of the one during last year's postseason, which saw Jimmy Butler play the role of Durant and consequently scorch the Bucks during the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals. 

The highly anticipated Game 6 will take place on Thursday from Milwaukee, as Antetokounmpo and the Bucks hope to stave off elimination and force a Game 7.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports