Following the completion of an undefeated preseason, the Bucks first since 1997, Antetokounmpo said it was “scary how good we can be” heading into the regular season.

The NBA’s reigning MVP spoke proudly of the habits his team had built over the 5-0 campaign but vowed to continue working following earlier concerns from Coach Budenholzer regarding the team’s defence. 

Taking on board advice, Milwaukee turned up the intensity in Thursday's game to cover for each other on defence and pushing their limits on offence. 

Bucks’ preseason leaders include the 24-year-old forward, averaging 27.3 points and 12 rebounds, Middleton, with 15.2 points and 4.5 assists, and Bledsoe who shot 100% from three.

With the NBA’s annual GM survey revealing Giannis could scoop the MVP award for a second year running, the pressure is piled onto one of the association’s most feared defensive players to pull out all the stops and ensure a dominating season ahead for the Bucks.

Milwaukee’s regular season kicks off in Houston next Thursday at 8 pm ET as they take on the Rockets.