The Los Angeles Lakers ruled this one. From Luka Doncic’s effortless dominance to Austin Reaves’ clutch heroics and Jake LaRavia’s breakout, purple and gold performances were everywhere. But a few others made noise, too, proving that the NBA’s early-season energy is already off the charts. Let’s dive into our favorite showings from the past week.
Austin Reaves – 28 points, 16 assists – Oct 30 vs. MIN
Reaves showed he’s more than just a scorer. After back-to-back 50 and 40-point explosions, he shifted gears, dishing out 16 assists while still pouring in 28 points. The highlight? A cold-blooded, game-winning buzzer-beater. He’s cementing himself as part of the Lakers’ new Big Three alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Luka Doncic – 44 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists – Nov 1 vs. MEM
Back after missing three games, Doncic wasted no time reminding everyone who runs the show. He looked smooth and effortless, leading a strong second-half comeback while casually chatting up the crowd as he dismantled the Grizzlies’ defense. It was vintage Luka—controlled brilliance, complete command, and pure joy on the court.
Aaron Nesmith – 31 points, 5 threes – Nov 2 vs. GSW
Coming off a string of horrible shooting nights, the sharpshooter just kept on keeping on and finally found his stroke – then helping mount a come-from-behind victory. Shooters shoot. Period.
Jalen Duren – 33 points, 10 rebounds, 13/16 FGs – Nov 2 vs. DAL
Duren continues to impress as more than just a physical presence in the paint. With Anthony Davis sidelined, he dominated inside, notching his second straight 20-10 game. Cade Cunningham kept feeding him, and Duren made the most of it with power and polish. If he sharpens his offensive bag, watch out: he’s coming.
Jake LaRavia – 25 points, 4 steals, 10/13 FGs – Nov 3 vs. MIA
LaRavia’s proving he belongs. Filling in for fan favorite Dorian Finney-Smith came with pressure, but he’s thriving in JJ Redick’s system and fitting perfectly beside Doncic and Reaves. Against Miami, he was everywhere—efficient, active, and locked in on both ends. For just two years and $6 million, that’s incredible value for the Lakers.
Kon Knueppel – 24 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists – Nov 3 vs. UTA
The rookie is showing out! Without LaMelo Ball and also playing on the second night of a back-to-back, Knueppel just hovered over the hapless Jazz defense.
Devin Booker – 28 points, 13 assists, 10/15 FGs – Nov 3 vs. SAS
Booker was pure class against San Antonio, picking his spots with surgical precision. While his teammates focused on containing Victor Wembanyama, he handled the offense like a maestro, efficient, poised, and deadly from all areas. It was the kind of smooth, balanced performance that reminds everyone why he’s one of the league’s premier guards.
