45 points on average
Luka Doncic‘s Scoring Barrage: is this the NBA’s New MVP Race?
Table of Contents
November 1, 2025, 9:34 a.m
Forget the injury report. Luka Doncic is back, and he’s not just playing; he’s dominating. the Slovenian sensation is rewriting the record books in the nascent NBA Cup,and his scoring average is nothing short of historic. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls are quietly making noise with their best start in nearly three decades.
In a league often defined by its superstars, Luka Doncic is reminding everyone why he’s at the very top of the conversation. After a brief three-game layoff due to injury, the Los Angeles Lakers‘ dynamic point forward has exploded out of the gate in the inaugural NBA Cup.In his third game back, Doncic dropped over 40 points for the third consecutive outing, a feat only matched by the legendary Wilt Chamberlain in the opening three games of a season. This isn’t just good basketball; it’s a masterclass in offensive firepower.
His latest masterpiece came in a hard-fought 117-112 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. Doncic,playing through the lingering effects of a sprained left finger,poured in 44 points,single-handedly willing the Lakers to a crucial win. He has the ability to carry a team and he showed that today,
remarked teammate Austin Reaves, echoing the sentiment of every fan watching.Doncic’s stat line wasn’t just about scoring; he also chipped in 12 rebounds and six assists, showcasing his all-around impact. his current scoring average? A staggering 45 points per game. To put that in perspective, that’s a pace that would shatter most scoring records.
The NBA Cup, now in its second year, is proving to be more than just a preseason exhibition. This tournament, structured with group play and knockout rounds, sees its results integrated into the regular season standings, adding a layer of intensity from day one. For the Lakers, this early success in the Cup is vital, especially with the continued absence of LeBron James, who is sidelined with sciatic nerve issues and is expected to miss more time. Doncic’s return, after missing three games himself with a sprained finger and bruised lower leg, has been the spark the Lakers desperately needed.His efficiency in the Grizzlies game was remarkable,hitting 14 of 27 shots from the field,demonstrating a sharp shooting touch.
across the league, other teams are also making statements. The Chicago Bulls, a franchise with a rich history, are off to their best five-win start in nearly 30 years. Their extraordinary 135-125 road victory against the New York knicks, fueled by a dominant first half, signals a potential resurgence for the six-time NBA champions. Leading the charge for Chicago was Josh Giddey, who put on a show with 32 points, proving that the Bulls have more than enough firepower to compete.
As the NBA season unfolds, all eyes are on Luka Doncic. His historic scoring run, coupled with his all-around brilliance, has not only revitalized the Lakers but has also ignited the MVP debate. is this the season Doncic solidifies his claim as the league’s undisputed best player? The early returns suggest it’s a very strong possibility.
DoncicS Dominance: Key Stats and Comparisons
To fully grasp the magnitude of Luka Doncic’s performance, let’s break down his stats and compare them to some of the NBA’s all-time greats. The following table provides a clear picture of his current dominance.
| Statistic | Luka Doncic (2025-26) | Comparison | Ancient Context/Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game (PPG) | 45.0 | Higher than Michael Jordan’s career PPG (30.1) | If maintained, would place him among the highest single-season scoring averages in NBA history. Currently, closer to Wilt Chamberlain’s record(s). |
| Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | 10.5 | Comparable to LeBron James’ peak rebounding seasons. | Highlights his all-around impact and versatility. |
| Assists Per Game (APG) | 7.2 | Similar to prime pass-first point guards such as Steve Nash. | Demonstrates his playmaking abilities and ability to make his teammates better. |
| Field Goal Percentage (FG%) | 51.9% | Above the league average for his position. | Indicates high efficiency despite a high volume of shots. |
| 3-Point Percentage (3P%) | 38.7% | Shows that he has improved from last season. | Elite shooting from beyond the arc, making him an even greater threat. |
Note: Stats are current as of November 1, 2025
SEO-Friendly FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Luka Doncic’s remarkable start to the 2025-26 NBA season.
Is Luka Doncic on track to win the MVP this season?
Based on his electrifying start, scoring an average of 45 points per game, and already being a top candidate, Doncic is undoubtedly in the MVP conversation. However, the season is long, and factors like team success, health, and the performances of other top players (such as Nikola Jokic who can be a threat) will influence the final outcome. [[3]], and [[2]] will have standings/information available as the season progresses.
how does Doncic’s scoring compare to other NBA legends?
Doncic’s current scoring pace places him among the league’s elite, comparable to some of the highest-scoring seasons in NBA history. He is outperforming the career averages of many Hall of Famers, showcasing his extraordinary offensive talent. This season he’s on his way to make the Hall of Fame.
What is the significance of the NBA Cup this year?
The NBA Cup, integrated into the regular season, adds a layer of intensity and importance to early-season games. [[1]] , results in the cup matches impact the regular season in the standings, making every game crucial for playoff seeding and creates a new layer of investment for the fans and players alike.
What is the situation with LeBron James’ injury?
LeBron James is currently sidelined due to sciatic nerve issues and his return date is unkown as of November 1, 2025. His absence puts added pressure on Doncic, who has been instrumental in keeping the Lakers competitive and giving them a significant advantage within the early NBA Cup play.
Can the Chicago Bulls contend this year?
The Chicago Bulls’ strong start, including a dominant win against the New York Knicks (135-125), demonstrates they should certainly be considered contenders. With the emergence of players like Josh giddey, the bulls have the potential to make a deep playoff run.[[2]]
