Many saw the Oklahoma City Thunder’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers as a possible Finals preview between two of the best teams in the association. Many OKC fans were counting on Shai GIlgeous-Alexander to do what he always does and help the Thunder win, and he did just that.
SGA was easily the most impressive player during Oklahoma City’s 114-134 drubbing of the visiting Cavs. The guard was nearly unstoppable, with his scoring and playmaking taking center stage against a strong Cleveland team that failed to contain him.
While OKC’s win was an overall masterclass for every player involved, Shai’s stellar outing will always take the cake. His response to one post-game question will have OKC fans looking forward for the postseason.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander claims free throws aren’t necessary to dominate
SGA dominated in his 29 minutes of game time for Oklahoma City. He finished the game with an incredible stat line of 40 points, three rebounds, eight assists, and two steals. Putting up such numbers on limited minutes is impressive for the two-time All-Star.
What makes the feat even more incredible is that Shai scored so impressively with only five attempts to his name. Gilgeous-Alexander, who averages 8.1 FT attempts a game, only took five shots from the line against the Cavs. The rest of his points came from open play, where he only had one three-point FG from his 17 made attempts.
The Canadian superstar talked about his performance, claiming he doesn’t need to draw fouls to be effective.
Per Larry Brown of Larry Brown Sports:
In a postgame interview, Turner’s Jared Greenberg pointed out to SGA that he had a big game despite not shooting many free throws.
“I don’t need free throws,” Gilgeous-Alexander said in response. “When they come, it’s a plus. But I don’t need ’em. I get ’em however I take it.”
Gilgeous-Alexander is putting up MVP numbers for the Thunder this season, averaging a league-leading 31.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.1 blocks. OKC sits comfortably atop the Western Conference with a solid 33-6 record, and Shai’s dominant run for the Thunder will assure their homecourt advantage for the entire postseason.
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