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via Imago

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Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid went back and forth at each other and left their hearts out in a matchup a few days back. This wasn’t just a regular season game for the two, but it was rather a case to prove as to who deserves the MVP more. The Philadelphia 76ers star got the best of the Serbian champion in this tight battle and after the game, there was a moment of sportsmanship where Embiid termed Jokic as the “best player in the league”. Well, Kevin Garnett disapproves of it! 

Superstars in the current NBA have taken the time to appreciate their opponents whenever possible. However, KG believes that it kills the “competitive energy”. On his podcast with Paul Pierce, the Boston Celtics champion shared, One element that is missing from I think this era…it’s that competitive energy. I don’t wanna shake your hand. I might be staring at you. It was energy of brain boxing…That element is out.” 

To give examples, he added, I see Greek and [Jayson] Tatum hug at the end of the games. I’ll see Joel and Joker…it wasn’t none of that s***.This led to a hilarious revelation from KG when he and Pierce went at each other.

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The Big Ticket said, “I’m playing P. Pierce. This is my real friend. I’m playing Paul and I have a decent game…but we going at it. I’m having a good game, I look at him, ‘I get the and-one n****, can’t hold me n****’. Man he looked around, he was like what is wrong with y’all…Then n**** head-butted me…We squared up.” 

 

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A post shared by KG: Certified (@kgcertified)

This is how competitive the NBA was two decades back. KG has a lot of appreciation for the current superstars, but he wants them to be more competitive and less friendly. While KG believes the competitiveness has decreased, looking at the MVP ladder, we can see a different angle.

Watch this story: “After LeBron James Complains about HOF, Sue Bird Has an Answer for the King”

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The race for the MVP honor will not slow down any bit

The superstars might be nice to each other after their battle, but on the court, none of them have failed to make a mark, especially against each other. All the above-mentioned players, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Tatum, Embiid, and Jokic are at the top of the MVP ladder and the battle will go on for 4 more months.

Their eyes are set on the big title, but the MVP race shows the competition they bring in every regular season game. Especially, even through injuries. KG has a totally different take, though, where he does not want to see the sportsmanship.

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What are your thoughts on it? Share it in the comments below.

Read more: 11 Months After Issuing “Unhealthy” Warning, Kevin Garnett Relives His Childhood Memories Through Others: “This Used to Be My Ish”