What happened: Victor Wembanyama converted a putback tip-in as time expired in the second quarter to reach 23 points at intermission. The center also finished two alley-oops during the opening period before beating the halftime horn.

Why it matters: The first-half scoring outburst follows panel commentary that Wembanyama had plateaued offensively at the start of the 2026-27 campaign. Alongside Julian Champagnie's 18-point second quarter from beyond the arc, the interior scoring gave the offense balance across both quarters.

What to watch: Wembanyama enters the third quarter on pace to approach the 40-point mark depending on second-half rotation minutes.