The NBA season has kicked off with a bang, featuring several overtime thrillers and intense matchups. Amidst the team battles, a group of familiar superstars delivered outstanding individual performances, setting a high bar for the rest of the year. Let’s take a closer look at the players who stood out the most in the opening week.
👑 Wembanyama’s Historic Start
Victor Wembanyama has started his third season with an incredible display of skill, showing he’s ready to be a top player in the league. Leading the Spurs to a perfect 3-0 start, the talented big man put up amazing numbers, averaging 33.3 points, 13.3 rebounds, and an impressive 6.0 blocks per game. He also set a new league record, becoming the first player ever to score 100 points and record 18 blocks in the first three games of a season.
💪 Dončić Carries the Lakers
With LeBron James sidelined by an injury, Luka Dončić took on the primary role for the Lakers and did not disappoint. In the first two games, he averaged a stunning 46.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 8.5 assists, all while shooting an efficient 62.0% from the field. Dončić played heavy minutes and was the team’s main offensive engine, though he picked up a minor finger sprain and leg contusion that will cause him to miss some time.
🌟 Other Stars Making Their Mark
While Wembanyama and Dončić grabbed headlines, other superstars also had strong starts. Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks looked dominant, averaging 36.0 points and 16.0 rebounds while shooting a highly efficient 68.3%. Meanwhile, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder through two tough double-overtime victories, averaging 40.0 points per game. His performance was particularly impressive as his three-point shot has yet to find its rhythm.
📈 Reaves Rises to the Occasion
Lakers guard Austin Reaves has stepped up significantly in the absence of his star teammates. After two strong games alongside Dončić, he exploded for 51 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in his first game without both Dončić and LeBron James. Reaves has been very efficient, shooting 56.6% from the field, and is expected to take on a much larger role for the Lakers in the coming week.
