- Oct 16, 2026
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SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
The Memphis Grizzlies have opened the 2026-27 campaign with three consecutive victories, their best start since the 2017-18 season, following wins against the Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings. Ty Jerome has fueled the surprise surge, scoring 45, 28 and 31 points for a 104-point total through three games. Rookie Cameron Boozer also made history, becoming the fifth player ever to record at least 10 rebounds and four assists in each of his first three contests. The Grizzlies were ranked 24th in ESPN's Basketball Power Index in the preseason.
The Los Angeles Lakers have matched that 3-0 mark behind Luka Doncic, who poured in 52 points against Utah. The Minnesota Timberwolves opened with Anthony Edwards scoring 45 in the season opener; Edwards is averaging 28.7 points, placing him in the top 10 in scoring.
Defending champion New York Knicks stumbled to an 0-3 beginning amid ring night drama, with Mikal Bridges managing just 3.3 points per game on 22 percent shooting. The San Antonio Spurs dropped their first two contests to Houston and Oklahoma City before beating Dallas, which played without Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg. Victor Wembanyama shot 1-of-13 against Oklahoma City, the worst mark of his four-year career.
Several players suffered early injuries. Jalen Williams of the Thunder was stretchered off, while Jalen Duren of the Pistons and Jalen Suggs of the Magic were also sidelined.
ESPN analyst Bobby Marks noted that Memphis has distinguished itself immediately.
Source: ESPN - Tue Oct 27, 6:49 AM ET
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).