Early NBA season highlights feature Giannis debut, Lakers win and Lillard return
Opening night of the NBA season saw Giannis Antetokounmpo score 21 points for Miami, the Lakers defeat the Warriors, and Damian Lillard return to Portland, among other notable performances.
Giannis Antetokounmpo made an immediate impact in his first game with the Miami Heat, scoring 21 points in the first half and helping the team to a strong start against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota, refreshed by the addition of LaMelo Ball, posted a 131-106 victory, with Anthony Edwards contributing 45 points.
The Los Angeles Lakers, now without LeBron James, opened with a 127-105 win over the Golden State Warriors. Luka Dončić led the offense, while rookie center Walker Kessler shot perfectly (12-for-12) and showed solid defensive rotations.
Kawhi Leonard returned to Toronto, leading the Raptors to a win over the Chicago Bulls. The Raptors displayed balanced scoring from Leonard, Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, and emphasized strong defensive pressure.
Damian Lillard returned to the Portland Trail Blazers, and rookie Ja Morant debuted for the team. Lillard hit a three-pointer and a step-back shot, while Morant contributed a pull-up three and aggressive play in the early minutes.
Tyrese Haliburton returned from an Achilles injury for the Indiana Pacers, scoring 13 points on perfect shooting in the fourth quarter of a road win in New Orleans. His performance highlighted the Pacers' offensive options alongside Pascal Siakam.
Other early-season notes included a solid showing by the Houston Rockets, a competitive matchup between the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks, and a strong showing from the Brooklyn Nets in their retro uniforms.