
Scoring explosions are becoming the norm this season, and this week showed just how evenly the spotlight is being shared. Rookies, rising stars, and seasoned vets all delivered big-time performances, proving that the league’s talent pool has never been this deep – or this entertaining.
Jamal Murray — 52 pts, 19/25 FG (Dec 4 vs IND)
Jamal Murray delivered a massive bounce-back performance from the game prior, torching the Pacers’ horrific defense with ruthless efficiency. He looked smooth, confident, and fully in command as he drilled shot after shot. When Murray gets rolling, he’s one of the most reliable and dynamic shotmakers in the game – and this was a reminder of that.
Austin Reaves — 44 pts, 10 ast (Dec 5 vs TOR)
With Luka Doncic out and a struggling 41-year-old LeBron James beside him, Austin Reaves took over and looked every bit like a rising All-Star. He scored from everywhere, moved the ball beautifully, and kept the Lakers’ offense humming. Reaves is proving he can carry a team, not just complement one.
Cedric Coward — 23 pts, 14 reb, 5 ast (Dec 6 vs LAC)
The old Grit n’ Grind era may be gone, but rookie Cedric Coward brings that same hustle-first identity back to Memphis. He outworked and outplayed the star-studded Clippers, stuffing the stat sheet with energy plays and smart decisions. He’s been one of the league’s most pleasant rookie surprises, and he’s only getting better.
Jalen Johnson — 30 pts, 12 reb, 12 ast (Dec 7 vs WAS)
Jalen Johnson is becoming a weekly staple on this list – for good reason. With Trae Young sidelined, he’s taken on a massive role and is thriving as a do-everything point-forward. Sunday’s triple-double against Washington–his third over his last five games–showed off his all-around brilliance and hinted at a future where he’s among the league’s top-tier stars.
LeBron James — 29 pts, 7 reb, 6 ast (Dec 8 vs PHI)
After his incredible streak of 1,297 straight double-digit scoring games finally ended, LeBron responded like only LeBron could – by looking like the LeBron of old. He bullied his way to the rim, commanded the floor, and buried clutch jumpers in the fourth quarter to seal the win. Turning 41 in roughly three weeks, he’s still rewriting the aging curve.