The NBA season is fast approaching, with teams focused on winning the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy. This prestigious trophy currently resides in Oklahoma City, thanks to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder, who clinched the title in June. The Thunder are eager to defend their championship, and Gilgeous-Alexander aims to exceed his remarkable achievements from the 2024-25 season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A Playmaking Sensation
During the last season, Gilgeous-Alexander garnered several accolades, including the Most Valuable Player award and a spot on the All-NBA First Team. He also received the Finals MVP award and was honored as the Best Male Athlete at the ESPYs. His playoff performance showcased an elevated playmaking capability, which he has further developed in the preseason.
Career Transition to Point Guard
Initially entering the NBA as a talented combo guard, Gilgeous-Alexander demonstrated scoring prowess alongside a strong defensive game. Over his first three seasons, he primarily played as a shooting guard. However, during the previous season, he transitioned to the point guard position full-time, as documented by Basketball Reference.
His shift came after George Hill’s injury and subsequent trade to the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2020-21 season. That year was pivotal for Gilgeous-Alexander, marking his emergence as a potential star before injuries interrupted his progress.
Improvements in Playmaking
Since fully adopting the point guard role, Gilgeous-Alexander has shown consistent improvement in his playmaking skills. Early in his career, he struggled with vision at times. Now, he expertly balances scoring with facilitating, making him a dual-threat on the court.
During the 2024-25 season, he led the league in scoring while also showing playmaking prowess. His playoff journey included standout performances, highlighted by 10 assists in Game 5 and 12 assists in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. His ability to read defenses has become a key component of his success.
Preseason Highlights
- Played three preseason games averaging 19 minutes.
- Recorded an average of 5.3 assists per game.
- Demonstrated mastery in running the pick-and-roll.
The preseason provided a platform for Gilgeous-Alexander to showcase his enhanced playmaking skills. His passing ability opened up opportunities for teammates and created effective offensive plays. If he continues to advance in this area, he may position himself strongly in the upcoming MVP race.
