Something rare happened in Texas last night. Something unique even. For the very first time in history, four players under 25 have planted at least 30 points in a single meeting. The protagonists are not unknown to the battalion. Far from there. We find there Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis.
We will focus on the last three cities even if nothing should be taken away from Ingram’s performance in this fireworks display. Because yes, it was all fire in Dallas. With a score of 143-130, it’s hard not to focus on the various offensive performances. The three are also quite related.
First, two oh-so-talented young men broke their career records. Two generational talents as they say. It is also only the second in history that two under-21s have scored 35 points together in a single match. Before, we had to go back to the duel Kevin Durant – Eric Gordon in 2009. Luka Doncic thus scored 46 pawns (and 5 three-point baskets) and his evening opponent, Zion, 36 units.
“Luka had a hot stroke where he put 4 or 5 which were tough, contested. There is no defensive scheme to counter that. He’s just a great player who puts in big shots.” Explain Williamson.
Zion did Zion. Points and very little waste. He started with a 12/12 to end his game at 14/15 (including a perfect 14/14 in the paint). The only one to have done better in this sector? Hakeem Olajuwon in 1998.
“That’s ridiculous. I mean, what he’s doing on the pitch is amazing,” says Rick Carlisle.
To these two UFOs, we must add the Latvian trigger Kristaps Porzingis. The former Knicks had set the sights with eight award-winning baskets for 36 points in total. This is the very first time that a European duo have scored so much in a match. What attract the praise of their coach.
“They are two great offensive players who are unique. Together, they have a great complementarity. Tonight, their chemistry was phenomenal. The balls were delivered in the right timing, which allowed the shots to be taken in rhythm. nice to see”.
It now remains for them to be able to evolve as often as possible together to join the top 8, which is only 1.5 games this morning.
CQFR: Doncic unleashed, Lakers and Jazz at the top
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