Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whose extraordinary season has firmly established him as one of the NBA’s premier talents. The 2023-24 season of the Oklahoma City Thunder may have ended with a Round 2 exit against the Dallas Mavericks, but it was far from a disappointment.
Under the spotlight of high expectations, the Thunder, as the youngest first seed ever, not only won a playoff series but also solidified their status as a burgeoning powerhouse in the league.
A Year of Exceptional Achievements
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance this past season was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 30.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game, he not only secured a runner-up finish in the MVP race but also earned back-to-back All-NBA First Team honors.
His scoring prowess was backed by an impressive true-shooting percentage of 63.6% and a free-throw percentage of 87.4%, underscoring his efficiency and reliability from the line.
The 25-year-old guard’s ability to dominate games was evident in his statistical rankings, placing in the 86.5 percentile as an isolation scorer and an even more impressive 96.8 percentile as a pick & roll ball-handler. These figures are a testament to his versatile offensive skills, which have become a cornerstone for the Thunder’s strategy.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Mastering the Mid-Range
One of the most remarkable aspects of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s game this season has been his mastery of the mid-range area. Frequently utilizing the pull-up jumper, he shot an exceptional 51% from this range, a statistic that places him in the 93rd percentile among his peers.
This ability not only diversifies his scoring options but also makes him a constant threat on the floor.
Defensive Prowess and Future Prospects
Beyond his offensive contributions, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has also shown significant improvements on the defensive end. Tied for the league lead in steals, he has demonstrated that high usage does not deter his defensive engagements—a rarity among guards who shoulder heavy offensive loads.
Looking forward, the future appears bright for both Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder. With his current contract ensuring his stay until at least the 2026-27 season, the team can look forward to more seasons of elite performances.
His finesse and skill-based game suggest that his play will age well, potentially extending his peak years and keeping the Thunder in the championship conversation for the foreseeable future.
Final Thoughts
The trajectory of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s career is a compelling narrative of growth, resilience, and exceptional skill. As he continues to develop and refine his game, the Oklahoma City Thunder finds itself with not just a franchise player but a potential NBA legend in the making.
For his outstanding contributions and leadership this season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander undoubtedly earns an A-plus grade, with the promise of even greater achievements to come.
