In a remarkable return from injury, Luka Doncic scored 44 points, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 117-112 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on October 27, 2023. This performance marked Doncic’s third consecutive game scoring at least 40 points, a feat that places him in elite company alongside the legendary Wilt Chamberlain.
Doncic’s scoring spree began with a 43-point effort in the season opener against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, 2023, followed by an impressive 49 points in a win against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 24, 2023. The only players in NBA history to start a season with three straight 40-point games are Doncic and Chamberlain, who achieved this milestone twice during his career.
As Doncic continues to dazzle on the court, discussions are growing about his potential to average 40 points per game for the entire season. Currently, he boasts an average of 45.3 points per game, shooting 58.4% overall and 35.1% from three-point range. Alongside these scoring numbers, he contributes 11.7 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game.
When asked if he could maintain such an extraordinary scoring average, Doncic acknowledged the challenge. “That’s gonna be tough,” he said. “Sometimes they’re going to double-team me more. Sometimes I won’t be able to score that much.” He reflected on his shot selection, admitting, “I had, I think, three or four shots that were crazy shots… I’ve got to work on that.”
Doncic’s teammates, however, show unwavering confidence in his abilities. Austin Reaves expressed his belief that Doncic could indeed average 40 points for the season, emphasizing that such a feat would significantly benefit the team. When Reaves’ comment was shared with Doncic, the star guard humorously responded, “Austin’s stupid,” showcasing the playful camaraderie within the team.
Chamberlain remains the only player in NBA history to average at least 40 points for an entire season, a record he last achieved over 60 years ago. He also holds the record for the highest seasonal average, with an astounding 50.4 points per game during the 1961-62 season. The only other players to come close are Michael Jordan, who averaged 37.1 points in the 1986-87 season, and Chamberlain himself, who averaged 38.4 points in the 1960-61 season.
Lakers veteran Marcus Smart shared his thoughts on Doncic’s scoring potential, stating, “I don’t see why not… He has a lot of help on the wings for him.” Smart believes that with strong support from teammates, Doncic can maintain his scoring prowess throughout the season. He also noted that other players, such as Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and Philadelphia 76ers’ Tyrese Maxey, are averaging over 35 points per game, emphasizing that many players possess the talent to achieve similar scoring averages if given the opportunity.
As the Lakers prepare for their next game against the Miami Heat at Crypto.com Arena on October 29, 2023, all eyes will be on Doncic. His potential to make history and join Chamberlain as the only player to average 40 points for an entire season could redefine expectations in the league. The excitement surrounding Doncic’s performance underscores not only his skill but also the evolving dynamics of scoring in the NBA.
