With only 18 games remaining, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s magical season continues. They are 53-11 through 20 weeks of action. The Thunder currently hold a 12-game lead over the number two seed, the Los Angeles Lakers, for the top spot in the West.

Here’s my Week 20 — Thunder Player of the Week: 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made a big statement for his MVP case as he led the Thunder to another undefeated week (4-0). 

In the first of a pivotal back-to-back matchup between the top two MVP candidates, SGA and the Thunder outdueled Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets, making a big statement. 

In three games this week, SGA averaged 44 points, 6.6 assists, and 5 rebounds while shooting 54 percent from the floor, 40 percent from beyond the arc, and 100 percent from the free throw line.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dribbles the ball while scanning the court during a game, with a referee and crowd in the background.
Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander controls the ball, looking to make a play during a high-energy game.

SGA’s MVP Case 

With the MVP race discourse in full effect, SGA is having a historical guard season and is putting together a perfect MVP season. 

  • In 62 games, SGA is averaging — 32.9 points, 6.2 assists, 5.1 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 1 block per game, with 52/37/90 shooting splits.
  • Currently on a 68-win pace in a loaded Western Conference.
  • Leading the youngest team in the league to the No.1 seed in the Western Conference by a landslide and the second-best overall record in the NBA.
  • Elevates his play against the best teams in the NBA.
  • Has multiple signature performances this season. 

SGA’s Surgical Season

Every year, SGA continues to improve his game, and this season is no exception. He’s leading the NBA in scoring (32.9 PPG) and is the current favorite to win his first MVP. 

He should not be taken for granted in terms of his efficiency and the rate at which he’s scoring and defending while maintaining the proper playmaking balance. 

Since Michael Jordan, SGA has been the only guard to average 30 points, five assists, and five rebounds while shooting 50 percent or better from the floor.

SGA is on pace to have his third straight season with 30 PPG on 50 percent FG. Michael Jordan is the only guard in NBA history to have more such seasons.

Here’s a graphic that speaks volumes about SGA’s dominance.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Achievements:

  • Joins Kevin Durant as the second player in franchise history to score 2000+ points three times. 
  • Joins Michael Jordan as the only player in the last 40 years to score 30+ points in 40+ games over three consecutive seasons. 
  • Alexander scored 20+ points in 58 consecutive games, the third-longest streak since 2000, behind Kevin Durant’s streak of 72 consecutive games and Kobe Bryant’s streak of 63 consecutive games.
  • SGA’s consistency is the result of his hard work and discipline, which have compounded over the years, and he is currently reaping the benefits of his efforts. 

Takeaways — MVP Statement 

SGA and the Thunder are rolling, winning seven straight games, as OKC continues to show everyone that they’re the class of the West. 

Wins: vs Houston Rockets (137 to 128), @ Memphis Grizzlies (120 to 103), vs Portland Trailblazers (107-89), vs Denver Nuggets (127 to 103).

End Of My Thunder Rant

With massive MVP narrative implications, the Thunder won the first game of their back-to-back against Denver. SGA again had another signature performance that should further boost his chances of winning MVP.