Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sidelined as Thunder’s 14-game streak on the line against Jazz
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be watching from the sidelines for the first time this season when the Oklahoma City Thunder face the Utah Jazz on Sunday night. His absence raises questions about the viability of the Thunder’s impressive 14-game winning streak, but the team has shown they can thrive even without their star player.
Thunder’s Historic Pace
The Thunder have been on a remarkable trajectory this season, boasting a record of 22-1 and showcasing their ability to play at an elite level following last year’s championship run. Gilgeous-Alexander has been a crucial part of this success, participating in all 23 games thus far. However, he will be sidelined due to left elbow bursitis, and the hope is that his time off the court will be minimal.
As the team prepares to take on the Jazz, they will not only miss Gilgeous-Alexander but also several other key players, including Lu Dort, Alex Caruso, Isaiah Joe, and Isaiah Hartenstein. This leaves the Thunder facing a challenging situation, relying on a less experienced lineup to maintain their winning streak.
Next-Man-Up Mentality
In this compromised lineup, players like Jalen Williams, who recently made his NBA debut, will need to step up. Alongside Williams, Chet Holmgren, Cason Wallace, and Ajay Mitchell will look to carry the load as they aim for the team’s 23rd victory of the year. Historically, Oklahoma City has navigated similar challenges well; last season, they played six games without Gilgeous-Alexander and won five of those contests. This success highlighted the depth and cohesion of the squad.
Even in the absence of one of the league’s top scorers, the Thunder’s identity remains intact. Their next-man-up mentality has become a cornerstone of their strategy, making them a formidable opponent regardless of who is on the court.
Depth Proving Vital
The importance of depth cannot be overstated, especially when considering the Thunder’s aspirations for a long playoff run. The team’s ability to maintain performance levels even without their star player was evident last season and continues to be a vital aspect of their game. While Gilgeous-Alexander’s talent is undeniable and his absence is felt deeply, the team’s ability to adapt with players like Williams and Holmgren provides a smoother transition during tough nights.
Looking ahead to the matchup against the 8-14 Jazz, Oklahoma City has reason for confidence. They previously dominated Utah with a 32-point victory earlier in the season, even with a less complete roster. The Thunder will aim to continue their winning ways, relying on the resilience and talent of their remaining roster. As they step onto the court, the focus will be on demonstrating that the strength of the Thunder lies not just in individual talent, but in their collective effort and teamwork.
