NBA Opening Day 2021 rocked the sports world with some electrifying matchups and incredible individual performances. I mean, who can forget the face-off between the Brooklyn Nets and the defending champions, Milwaukee Bucks? Watching Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo go head-to-head felt like a playoff game, not the season opener. Durant, who scored 32 points in that game, showcased why he’s still one of the top players in the league. The Bucks didn’t disappoint either; Giannis racked up 29 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists, making his presence felt on both ends of the court.
Switching gears, the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Golden State Warriors, a game that had everyone buzzing. LeBron James, even at the age of 36, put up a strong performance with 34 points. It’s always fascinating to see how LeBron, one of the oldest active players, can still dominate the game. On the other side, Steph Curry was in his usual form, scoring 21 points and dishing out 10 assists. Watching Curry hit those deep threes is like witnessing a master at work. The Warriors ended up winning the game with a score of 121-114, and it was a clear indicator that they’re back in the championship race.
The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics provided another thriller, taking the game to double overtime. Julius Randle was a monster for the Knicks, scoring 35 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. The Knicks’ newfound energy and grit under Tom Thibodeau are palpable, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Jayson Tatum, although struggling with his shot, still managed to contribute 20 points for the Celtics. RJ Barrett chipped in with 19 points, helping the Knicks to a dramatic 138-134 victory. That game had Madison Square Garden rocking; the energy in the building was something else entirely.
I can’t talk about NBA Opening Day without mentioning the Chicago Bulls’ game against the Detroit Pistons. Zach LaVine’s 25 points carried the Bulls to a narrow 94-88 victory. The game showcased the Bulls’ potential new dynamic with their revamped roster, including the addition of DeMar DeRozan. LaVine showed why he’s a cornerstone for this Bulls team, and it’s going to be interesting to see how this team shapes up over the season. Cade Cunningham, the number one pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, didn’t play due to an ankle injury; fans are eagerly waiting to see what he brings to the Pistons once he hits the court.
Another notable game was the Phoenix Suns taking on the Denver Nuggets. Devin Booker put up 27 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets. Jokic, last season’s MVP, scored 27 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, proving he’s picking up right where he left off. The Nuggets secured a 110-98 win, and it looks like they’re going to be a formidable team again this season. Jokic’s dominance in the paint and ability to facilitate from the center position is something only a few players in NBA history have done with such efficiency.
The Hawks’ young star Trae Young lit up the scoreboard against the Dallas Mavericks, finishing with 19 points and 14 assists. Watching him orchestrate the offense with such finesse reminds me why he’s considered one of the league’s most exciting young talents. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic put up 18 points, but it wasn’t enough, as the Mavericks fell 113-87. It’s evident that both teams have some adjustments to make as the season progresses, but watching these young stars grow is definitely worth the time.
nba opening day 2021 was a perfect start to what promises to be another thrilling NBA season. From veteran performances to young stars making their mark, the excitement was off the charts. The range of emotions—from nail-biting finishes to individual brilliance—was why we love this sport. And judging by the opening games, it looks like we’re in for a treat this year.