In a remarkable turn of events, the Oklahoma City Thunder are poised to make their first appearance in the NBA Finals since 2012, a feat largely driven by the exceptional performance of their star guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This resurgence marks a significant milestone for the franchise and highlights the rising prominence of Gilgeous-Alexander as one of the league’s most influential players.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Catalyst Behind Oklahoma City’s Success

At just 26 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander has established himself as a true game-changer, earning the 2024-25 NBA Most Valuable Player award and leading his team through a dominant playoff run. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Thunder to the Western Conference Finals, where they secured victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a commanding 124-94 win in Game 5.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact extends beyond scoring; his ability to influence the game on both ends of the floor has earned him widespread recognition. His season averages of 32.7 points per game, coupled with a shooting efficiency of over 51%, underscore his offensive prowess. Additionally, he contributed nearly 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per contest, showcasing his all-around game.

Industry Praise and the Mid-Range Revival

Legendary guard Jeff Teague recently lauded Gilgeous-Alexander on his podcast “Club 520,” asserting that the Oklahoma City star has “saved the NBA.” Teague emphasized that Gilgeous-Alexander’s mastery of the mid-range shot has revitalized a league increasingly obsessed with three-pointers and dunks. According to Teague, the guard’s proficiency in this area has influenced the league’s strategic evolution, making mid-range jumpers a more respected and vital part of offensive schemes.

Teague’s comments reflect a broader trend in the NBA, where players like Gilgeous-Alexander are redefining offensive versatility. His ability to excel in the mid-range has not only contributed to his MVP campaign but also helped shift the league’s offensive philosophy back toward a more balanced approach.

Breaking Down Gilgeous-Alexander’s Historic Season

The 2024-25 campaign has been a career-defining period for Gilgeous-Alexander. He led the league in scoring, with an average of 32.7 points per game, and set a record by scoring 20 or more points in 72 consecutive contests. His offensive output included 75 games with at least 20 points, 49 with 30 or more, 13 surpassing 40 points, and four reaching the 50-point mark, cementing his status as a scoring powerhouse.

His efficiency was equally impressive, with a field goal percentage of 51.9%. Beyond scoring, Gilgeous-Alexander contributed significantly in assists (6.4 per game), rebounds (5.0), steals (1.7), and blocks (1.0), demonstrating his comprehensive impact on the court.

Playoff Performance and Future Prospects

In the postseason, Gilgeous-Alexander has maintained his high level of play, averaging nearly 30 points per game, along with 6.9 assists and 1.6 steals over 16 games. His leadership has been crucial in pushing the Thunder closer to their first championship in over a decade. If Oklahoma City can secure four more wins, many analysts believe Gilgeous-Alexander’s name will be firmly etched among the league’s all-time greats.

Additional NBA Highlights and Notable Mentions

While Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise has captured headlines, other NBA stories continue to unfold. Notably, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves has made a bold statement following a tough Game 5 loss, signaling his determination to bounce back. Meanwhile, Golden State Warriors’ guard has undergone unexpected offseason surgery, highlighting the physical toll of an intense playoff run.

For comprehensive coverage of the NBA and ongoing playoff developments, visit Newsweek Sports.

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About the Author

Ricardo Sandoval is a Los Angeles-based sports journalist contributing to Newsweek since 2024. His primary focus is on basketball and other major sports, with additional writing for On SI covering teams like the Lakers, Bucks, Celtics, Pacers, and Trail Blazers. Ricardo is also a staff writer for Dodgers Nation. A graduate of California State University, Northridge, he can be reached via email at [email protected] or on X (@_RicardoSand). His insights and analysis continue to shape sports discourse in the current season.