Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the future of the NBA on Wednesday night. Westbrook was spectacular in delivering the Oklahoma City Thunder to a dominating 118-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals. It was a special occasion for Gilgeous-Alexander, in particular, who last week received the prestigious NBA Most Valuable Player award. They gave him the MVP trophy on the field before the game. This honor truly reflected his impact on the team all season long.
Gilgeous-Alexander scored an incredible 38 points, matching his career playoff-high. His all-around performance was highlighted by eight assists and nine rebounds, a glimpse of the bright future ahead of him at the next level. Here’s the full rundown from that impressive performance by the Thunder guard. He was perfect from the floor until just over five minutes remaining in the first half. He tried ten shots just in the first quarter, making four while dishing out three dimes.
As the game wore on, Gilgeous-Alexander took it to another level, showing off his ability to get buckets and set it up for others. He had a trio of steals against just one turnover, showcasing his impact on that end of the floor as well. It was the fifth straight game that he scored 30 or more points. This incredible performance lines him up, again, to be one of the key players all-time in the playoffs.
Then, in the game’s closing seconds, Gilgeous-Alexander attacked the rim aggressively and forced Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels to foul him. He seized the opportunity and knocked down two big free throws, putting the Thunder out of reach for good. His ability to rise to the occasion was on full display, as he just kept making huge plays offensively and defensively.
The Thunder took full advantage of Gilgeous-Alexander’s breakout, putting themselves in position to win the series. The team exhibited all-star chemistry and toughness in the comeback against the Timberwolves. Their goal is to continue to drive out this momentum as they go forward.
