The NBA season has kicked off with thrilling performances and standout players emerging early on. As we mark the first month of the season, several athletes have distinguished themselves as potential future superstars. Here are the top five standout players who have excelled, bringing excitement to the league.
Top Five Standout Players in the First Month of NBA Season
1. Jalen Duren – Detroit Pistons
Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons has made significant strides in his fourth season. He is averaging a career-high 20.6 points per game, significantly exceeding his previous best. Alongside these impressive numbers, Duren is also pulling down 11.9 rebounds and blocking 1.1 shots per game.
- Career-high scoring performance: 33 points vs. Dallas Mavericks on Nov. 1
- Dominant rebounding display: 22 points and 22 rebounds against the Utah Jazz on Nov. 5
- Current usage rate: 23.5%, his highest to date
Duren’s performance places him among the top five centers in scoring and the fourth in rebounds. If he continues this form, a max contract may be in his future.
2. Josh Giddey – Chicago Bulls
Josh Giddey has been a key player for the Chicago Bulls, showcasing impressive skills since the second half of last season. He is currently averaging nearly a triple-double with 20.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game.
- Career-high minutes: 34.2 per game
- Triple-doubles secured: 3 in 14 games
- Points scored in a single game: 32 against the New York Knicks on Oct. 31
Giddey leads all guards in rebounds with 118 and assists with 116, positioning the Bulls as one of the top teams in assist totals this season.
3. Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers
Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a dynamic offensive force for the Philadelphia 76ers. He is averaging an impressive 33.4 points per game, contributing significantly to the team’s scoring efforts.
- Career-high minutes: 40.7 per game
- Scoring consistency: No games below 21 points
- Career-high single-game score: 54 points against the Milwaukee Bucks on Nov. 20
Maxey holds a high shooting efficiency and leads the league in three-pointers made, establishing himself as a cornerstone for the franchise.
4. Alex Sarr – Washington Wizards
Despite the struggles of the Washington Wizards, Alex Sarr has shown notable improvement. He is averaging 18.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while maintaining an efficient shooting percentage of 51.9% from the field.
- Scoring high points: 31 points twice this season
- Blocked shots leader among sophomores: 28 total
- Scoring efficiency: Increased true shooting percentage by 9.6%
Sarr ranks highly among second-year players and demonstrates significant growth in his performance metrics.
5. Austin Reaves – Los Angeles Lakers
Austin Reaves has emerged as a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, especially with LeBron James sidelined. He is averaging career-high numbers: 28.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game.
- Remarkable scoring performance: 51 points against the Sacramento Kings on Oct. 26
- Game-winning shot: Buzzer-beater vs. Minnesota Timberwolves on Oct. 29
- Rank among undrafted players: First in points per game
Reaves has positioned himself among the league’s top scorers, and his success could reshape expectations for undrafted players in the NBA.
These players are not only making headlines but also shaping the future of their respective teams. As the season progresses, fans look forward to witnessing their continued development. The early standout performances highlight a promising start to the NBA season.
