January's NBA Heat Check: Top Individual Performances

As January comes to an end, it's time to look back on the outstanding individual performances that electrified the NBA courts. From career-defining games to dominating displays, the league experienced some truly unforgettable events. Here’s a rundown of the top five individual performances of the month:

5. Jalen Brunson: Leading a Knicks' Rout (Bucks vs. Knicks, Jan. 12)

Jalen Brunson confirmed his status as a top-tier point guard with a masterful display against the Milwaukee Bucks. The 2025 All-Star starter dazzled with 44 points, six assists, and five rebounds. His efficiency was impressive, making 16 of 26 shots, including five three-pointers. Brunson's leadership drove the Knicks to a commanding 140-106 win.

4. CJ McCollum: A Vintage Performance (Wizards vs. Pelicans, Jan. 3)

CJ McCollum demonstrated his scoring ability in a classic performance against the Washington Wizards. He erupted for 50 points, hitting 18 of 27 shots and an impressive 10 of 16 from three-point range. McCollum’s efficient scoring in just 31 minutes powered the Pelicans to a 132-120 victory.

3. Daniel Gafford: Dominating the Paint (Mavericks vs. Hornets, Jan. 20)

Daniel Gafford became a dominant presence in late January. Despite a 110-105 loss to the Charlotte Hornets, Gafford delivered a phenomenal performance, scoring 31 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and blocking seven shots. His efficiency was evident, hitting 12 of 15 shots.

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A Historic Night (Jazz vs. Thunder, Jan. 22)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reached new heights with a career-high 54 points against the Utah Jazz. His scoring surge led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 123-114 win. SGA’s performance was comprehensive, adding eight rebounds, five assists, three steals, and two blocks. He shot 17 of 35 from the field and was nearly perfect from the free-throw line, making 17 of 18.

1. Nikola Jokić: Another Month, Another Masterpiece (Kings vs. Nuggets, Jan. 23)

Nikola Jokić continued his dominance in January, strengthening his MVP case. In a victory over the Sacramento Kings (132-123), Jokić achieved another triple-double with 35 points (12-19 FG, 2-3 3PT, 9-10 FT), 22 rebounds, and 17 assists. Notably, this was his fifth consecutive triple-double before the fourth quarter, highlighting his unmatched influence on the game.