It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. The NBA is officially back!
Last night, the 2022-23 season tipped off on ESPN. Leading the doubleheader, defending Eastern Conference Finals champs, the Boston Celtics, faced off against the Philadelphia 76ers. The matchup was an early look at likely contenders in the conference’s postseason. But before any action took place on the hardwood, the Celtics paid a special tribute to the legend, Bill Russell, who passed away in July.
Leading the way, and setting new records, the dynamic duo that is Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, set the tone with a historical performance. Combining for 70 points, they became the first pair of teammates to each record 35+ points in their team’s first game of the season since Wilt Chamberlain (35) and Jerry West (39) on Oct. 17, 1969!! What a way to kick off the season! Blake Griffin and Malcolm Brogdon each made their season debut as a Celtic, as well. The win over the Sixers also marked the first win for Joe Mazzulla as a head coach!
On the Sixers’ side, Doc Rivers expressed the importance of opening night ahead of the game. “Opening night is its own beast. Guys have worked all summer to show not only us but everyone what they’ve done, what they’ve worked on. And as a coach, you want to make sure they don’t show everything – because they may not be ready to show that.” Despite taking a loss, Rivers is optimistic about his guys, and the season.
James Harden had a huge game for the Sixers, while Joel Embiid contributed 26 points, and Tyrese Maxey finished with 21. There’s a lot to look forward to with this squad as they host their home opener this Thursday against Giannis and the Bucks.
Following the Celtics’ win out East, the night concluded in California as the Warriors hosted the Lakers. Just before tip-off, the Warriors celebrated with the presentation of their championship rings.
“I got a really big team. And they need some really big rings. They need some really nice things.” Those lyrics blasted through the arena’s speakers after the Warriors received their new bling, and raised another banner.
With an emphasis on the word “team,” the Warriors went on to defeat the Lakers, after a complete team effort. Coach Steve Kerr played 11 players in the first half of the game, alone, with Stephen Curry clocking in 17 minutes of playtime, followed by Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole, at 16.
Draymond played 13 minutes while James Wiseman played 11. The rest of the players, despite playing fewer minutes, still contributed and made productive plays. The Warriors’ depth worked in their favor and will be key for the rest of the season.
For the Lakers, Anthony Davis had a HUGE night. Starting at center, it’s clear that the big man has more impact at the five – despite his preference for playing power forward. With Lebron taking charge in that position, the Lakers front court shows a lot of promise. Also joining the first unit, Russell Westbrook ended the night having played 31 minutes, and dropping 19 points.
Even with Lebron finishing with 31 points, and A.D. with 27 points, the combined star power on the Lakers squad just wasn’t enough.
Oh, and speaking of Lebron, he kicked off his 20th year in the NBA in all-white! Check out the fit below.
Overall, the NBA’s doubleheader to open the season gave fans a preview of what should be another exciting and unpredictable year of basketball. Check out the Top 10 Plays of the Night presented by the NBA below.
Up Next: Wednesday, 10/19/2022
