The Oklahoma City Thunder continue to dominate the Western Conference with an impressive 36-8 record, firmly holding the top spot. A major driving force behind their success has been Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has established himself as a leading MVP contender this season.
So far, the star guard has had a healthy season, missing just one game. In 43 appearances, Shai is averaging an outstanding 32 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. His standout performance of the season came last week against the Utah Jazz, where he set a career high with 54 points, along with eight rebounds and five assists. With this achievement, SGA joined Thunder legends Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook as the only players in franchise history to score 50 or more points in a game.
The Thunder will play against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is fully fit and ready to take the court. Meanwhile, the Thunder will be without Ajay Mitchell (toe), Nikola Topic (ACL), and Chet Holmgren (hip) for the upcoming game. On the Blazers’ side, Robert Williams III (hand) and Deandre Ayton (knee) are listed as day-to-day, while Matisse Thybulle is out with an ankle injury.
Kendrick Perkins Declares Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Ready To Lead The Next Era Of The NBA
On ESPN NBA, Kendrick Perkins shared high praise for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, calling him more than just an MVP contender. According to Perkins, SGA belongs in a much larger conversation about the future of the league.
“When we talk about the MVP conversation, yes he’s my front-runner, let’s take it a step further. We’ve been wondering who LeBron James and Steph Curry are going to pass the torch to as the next face of the NBA; I think SGA wants to wear it right now,” Perkins said.
Despite his stellar performances this season, Shai’s name rarely comes up in discussions about who will take over the mantle of leadership in the league once LeBron James and Stephen Curry step aside. With his dominance, SGA is positioning himself as one of the league’s brightest stars and a potential heir to the NBA throne.
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