The second day of the 2019-20 season — and opening night for most teams — was defined by close victories, injured stars, and ridiculous performances.
Whereas fresh sneakers took Day 1 by surprise, record debut numbers took the league by storm — and we're not talking about the usual 20-point, 10-rebound outings. From unbelievable all-around games to nearly unstoppable scoring binges, these fantasy-worthy boxscores entries have to be seen to be believed:
Danny Green
28 pts, 8 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk, 7 3pt vs LAC
The Lakers guard actually started the trend of crazy season-opener stats from the unlikeliest players. In an offense that was centered around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the two-time NBA champion had the highest scoring debut in franchise history during a loss to their arena rivals.
As sharp as Danny's shooting has been throughout most of his career, he's also known for being streaky. Cherish this, LA fans.
PJ Washington
27 pts, 4 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk, 7 3pt vs CHI
The Jordan ownership may have finally done something right by drafting the Wildcat with a sweet stroke. The No. 12 selection looked like a steal out there, leading the Hornets' hot three-point shooting (Charlotte record 23 makes in regulation) and proving that there's life after Kemba Walker.
The lack of consistent options — Terry Rozier had seven markers — will force PJ to have more nights like this.
Kendrick Nunn
24 pts, 3 ast, 2 stl, 1 3pt vs MEM
Kendrick who? The 6'2" combo guard had no takers in last year's draft and was signed by the Warriors...the G League's Santa Cruz Warriors, that is. After dropping 40 in a preseason defeat to the Rockets, the Heat's latest undrafted project continued to impress as a replacement starter.
Even when Jimmy Butler (personal) returns, expect the 24-year-old rookie to earn significant minutes just by working hard.
Andre Drummond
32 pts, 23 reb, 3 stl, 4 blk, 67% ft vs IND
Pretty sure Dre has had bigger games and stronger starts than this, but he was such a commanding presence against the Pacers. The 26-year-old (!) basically feasted on the frontcourt of Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis, while showing defensive activity and free-throw improvement (8-of-10).
Blake Griffin (knee, hamstring) is set to miss the first two weeks of the season, so don't be surprised if Drummond keeps on eating.
Kyrie Irving
50 pts, 8 reb, 7 ast, 1 blk, 7 3pt vs MIN
Uncle Drew's 50-piece should've been the stat line of the day, if the Nets didn't fall to the Wolves, 127-126, in overtime. Everyone knew that Kyrie is happy to be in Brooklyn, but not to the point that he would have the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. Too bad he clanged the potential game-winner.
Without Kevin Durant for what seems like an entire season, Irving has the chance to compete for the 2019-20 scoring title.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph