The first week of the NBA season came in hot. Big names went off, young guns showed out, and a few players dropped absolute bombs on the stat sheet. Here’s a quick look at the performances that made us stop scrolling, shake our heads, and go “Well, damn.”
Luka Doncic – 49 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists – Oct 25 vs. MIN
Doncic reminded everyone why he’s one of the league’s elite, torching Minnesota with a near triple-double in a revenge game against the team that bounced the Lakers last postseason. It was his second straight 40-point outing to open the year, proving he’s more than capable of carrying L.A. while LeBron James remains sidelined.
Austin Reaves – 51 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists – Oct 27 vs. SAC
Reaves delivered the best game of his career when the Lakers needed him most. With LeBron and Doncic both out, he erupted for 51 points, flirting with a triple-double and joining an exclusive list of Lakers to ever hit the 50-point mark. It was a statement performance that showcased his evolving star power.
Kyshawn George – 34 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 3 blocks – Oct 25 vs. DAL
The rookie forward put on a show with one of the most complete performances of the week. George filled every column of the stat sheet, outplaying top overall pick Cooper Flagg in the process. It was the kind of breakout effort that hints he could soon rise among the Wizards’ growing crop of young talent.
LaMelo Ball – 38 points, 13 rebounds, 13 assists, 3 steals – Oct 27 vs. WAS
Ball was in full control, logging a dazzling triple-double that reminded fans just how dynamic he can be. Combining scoring flair and pinpoint passing, he orchestrated the Hornets’ offense beautifully. After battling injuries the past few seasons, it’s just great to see LaMelo back to his confident, high-flying self.
Alperen Sengun – 39 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 1 block – Oct 22 vs. OKC
Even in an overtime loss, Sengun was a force. The Turkish big man showed how much he’s evolved, mixing inside finesse with playmaking polish. Sharing the floor with Kevin Durant hasn’t slowed him down one bit — in fact, he looks sharper than ever. Sengun’s growth continues to be one of Houston’s best stories.
VJ Edgecombe – 34 points, 5 3PM – Oct 23 vs. BOS
VJ Edgecombe has that dog in him. The rookie came out fearless in his debut, dropping 34 points and draining five triples against the Celtics. It’s the third-highest scoring debut ever — and the most since Wilt Chamberlain in 1959. Electric, aggressive, and unbothered by pressure, he’s already an early Rookie of the Year favorite.
