Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder to an unprecedented start
Every NBA season brings fresh expectations, yet Shai Gilgeous-Alexander consistently defies those expectations. Once labeled a fringe All-Star, the Oklahoma City Thunder guard has not only shattered the ceiling many predicted for him but has continued to elevate his game in remarkable ways. After making his All-Star debut and becoming a top-five MVP contender, Gilgeous-Alexander’s trajectory has only soared higher.
A historic season unfolds
Last season was nothing short of extraordinary for Gilgeous-Alexander. He claimed the NBA MVP title, earned accolades as the Western Conference Finals MVP, and ultimately guided the Thunder to their first championship, amassing a franchise-record 68 wins. As if that wasn’t enough, he launched his first signature shoe, graced the cover of NBA 2K26, starred in a Netflix series, and secured a supermax contract. Many would assume this was the pinnacle of his career, but at just 27, Gilgeous-Alexander is showing no signs of stagnation.
This season, he has propelled the Thunder to a historic 15-1 start, positioning them for a potential third consecutive No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. Their pursuit of back-to-back championships hasn’t been achieved since 2018, but with Gilgeous-Alexander at the helm, the dream feels more tangible than ever.
An evolution in playmaking
Gilgeous-Alexander’s game has evolved significantly, particularly in his playmaking abilities. He has transformed into a formidable live dribble passer, effectively leveraging his scoring prowess to create opportunities for his teammates. With an impressive average of 6.5 assists per game, he ranks among the top-15 in potential assists, showcasing his capacity to find open shooters from his 17.9 drives per game.
Moreover, he has become more adept at pulling up off the dribble for three-pointers, a development that could alter the defensive strategies opponents employ against him. Over the last six games, he has shot an impressive 44% from beyond the arc. His offensive game is also diversifying; he is increasingly getting catch-and-shoot opportunities and post-up looks, working alongside rookie Ajay Mitchell. When All-NBA swingman Jalen Williams returns from injury, Gilgeous-Alexander’s off-ball movement is expected to flourish even further.
Sustaining excellence
Despite these enhancements, Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t sacrificed the elements that made him a superstar. His efficiency remains stellar, generating 1.233 points per possession in pick-and-roll situations, ranking in the 96th percentile. He’s also thriving in transition, holding a 93rd percentile ranking, and is productive in isolation plays, averaging 1.113 points per possession.
As of now, he is averaging 32 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 2.4 stocks (steals + blocks) per game, shooting an astounding 53% from the field, 38% from three-point range, and 89% from the free-throw line. The Thunder have dominated the league, holding the best net rating and point differential, often allowing Gilgeous-Alexander to rest during the final moments of games.
This impressive start to the season serves as a fitting continuation of his MVP journey, solidifying his status at the forefront of the MVP conversation as the season unfolds.
Looking ahead
The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face the Utah Jazz in an NBA Cup matchup on Friday. As they aim to extend their dominant run in the league, all eyes will be on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to see how he continues to shape the future of this promising franchise.
