Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Evolving Into Elite Defensive Player

The Thunder's premier star is developing into a true two-way talent.

For the second season in a row, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is playing his way into the MVP conversation. The Thunder star is hovering around 30 points per game once again, and this time, he’s doing it without the lofty free throw attempts. Considering how much he drives to the basket, that number will probably rise over time, but his offensive dominance is reaching new heights.

And for the first time, Oklahoma City is winning at a high rate with Gilgeous-Alexander at the helm. The Thunder surprised everyone by sneaking into the play-in tournament a season ago and surpassed all expectations, but this season is different. The team is sitting on a 10-4 record and has leaped into the NBA’s Top Five in power rankings.

As the team gets more media exposure, the Gilgeous-Alexander hype train will only increase. And rightfully so.

But it hasn’t been all about offense this season, and that’s what makes it so special. Last year, SGA took a big leap as a defender but still didn’t quite get the credit he deserved. Through 14 games, it appears Gilgeous-Alexander has taken another big step forward as a defender, and his impact on that side of the floor is obvious.

Currently, the Thunder guard is leading the entire NBA in steals, averaging 2.5 takeaways per game. He’s in front of esteemed defenders like Paul George, Jalen Suggs and Marcus Smart. In addition, he’s averaging 0.8 blocks per contest, once again knocking on the door of the special category of guards averaging over one steal and one block per game.

According to StatMuse, Gilgeous-Alexander is third in the NBA in lowest opponent field goal percentage, minimum 150 field goals attempted defended. Opposing players are shooting just 41.2% when guarded by Oklahoma City’s star. He only trails Jrue Holiday and, ironically, Chet Holmgren — who has helped the Thunder take it up another notch defensively.

It’s still early, but his effort on both ends of the floor has been inspiring. Gilgeous-Alexander is the biggest reason why Oklahoma City’s offensive and defensive ratings both rank inside the top ten, and this Thunder team will go as far as he carries them.

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