The preparation period for this season was extremely tight, and most players were pushed onto the court before they were ready.
But this gave those who were well-prepared early on a chance to shine brightly.
Paul Pierce was one of them.
In the season opener against last season's finals arch-rival Utah Jazz, Paul Pierce put up a perfect stat line of 19 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks!
There couldn't have been a more perfect NBA debut; Pierce showcased his versatility to the fullest.
The Atlanta fans cheered wildly; it was like a complete upgrade from Stevie Smith!
He had the off-ball offense of Stevie Smith, but also ball-handling abilities that Stevie Smith didn't possess.
Most importantly, he played impressively on the defensive end.
The pre-draft scouting reports had said that Pierce's defense had improved over his three years in college, transforming from an offensive player who could only attack into an outstanding two-way wing.