Malachi Flynn, a relatively unknown player in the NBA, shocked everyone by scoring 50 points in a game for the Detroit Pistons against the Atlanta Hawks. In just 34 minutes off the bench, Flynn shot 18-of-25 from the field, including 5-of-9 from beyond the arc, while also contributing six rebounds, five assists, and four steals. Despite his incredible performance, the Pistons still fell short, losing 121-113 to the Hawks. Flynn’s 50-point outburst ties him for the second-most points scored off the bench in NBA history, behind Jamal Crawford’s 51-point game in 2019.
This performance was particularly surprising considering Flynn’s background as a relatively unremarkable player in the league. Drafted 29th overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2020, he struggled to find consistent playing time and had never scored over 27 points in a game prior to this breakout performance. He has mostly been a role player off the bench throughout his career, averaging just 12.3 minutes per game since his rookie season. Flynn had played for the Raptors and briefly for the New York Knicks before being traded to the Pistons in exchange for Bojan Bogdanović.
The 50-point game by Flynn was a standout moment in his career, representing a significant portion of his total career points. It was a performance that showcased his scoring abilities and potential as a high-impact player in the NBA. The closest a Pistons player had come to scoring 50 points this season was Cade Cunningham with 43 points. Flynn’s explosive scoring outburst exceeded expectations and highlighted his talent as a player capable of making a big impact on the court when given the opportunity.
Flynn’s 50-point game also made him only the third player in NBA history to score 50 points off the bench, further solidifying his place in basketball history. His incredible shooting efficiency and all-around performance in the game reflected his skills as a versatile guard capable of scoring, passing, and defending at a high level. Despite the Pistons’ loss, Flynn’s individual success in the game was a testament to his hard work and determination to succeed in the league as a young player looking to make his mark.
Moving forward, Malachi Flynn’s 50-point game is likely to be remembered as a standout moment in his career and a milestone that propelled him into the spotlight as a rising star in the NBA. His unexpected scoring outburst captured the attention of basketball fans and analysts alike, drawing praise for his skillset and potential as a player. As he continues to develop and grow as a player in the league, Flynn’s 50-point game will serve as a defining moment that highlights his ability to perform at a high level and make a significant impact on the court.
