Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, often referred to as SGA, has emerged as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars. His journey from a promising prospect to a legitimate MVP contender has been defined by consistent growth and a relentless work ethic. Examining his statistics provides a clear picture of his evolution and impact on the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Early in his career, SGA displayed glimpses of the player he would become. During his rookie season with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2018-19, he averaged 10.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. While these numbers were modest, they showcased his potential as a versatile guard with a knack for scoring and playmaking. His time in Los Angeles laid the foundation for his future success.
The trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 marked a pivotal moment. Given a larger role and greater responsibility, SGA began to flourish. In his first season with the Thunder (2019-20), he increased his scoring output to 19.0 points per game, while also contributing 5.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists. He demonstrated an improved ability to attack the basket and create opportunities for his teammates.
The 2020-21 season saw further improvement, despite the Thunder embracing a rebuilding phase. Gilgeous-Alexander upped his scoring to 23.7 points per game, along with 4.7 rebounds and 5.9 assists. Although an injury cut his season short, his performance solidified his status as the team’s primary offensive weapon and a player capable of carrying a significant scoring load.
However, it was the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons that truly catapulted SGA into the upper echelon of NBA players. In 2022-23, he averaged an impressive 31.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. His scoring efficiency also reached new heights, showcasing his ability to score from all three levels. This performance earned him his first All-Star selection and cemented his place as a top-tier scorer in the league.
The 2023-24 season saw SGA continue his ascent. He averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, solidifying his role as the unquestioned leader of the Thunder. His advanced stats further highlighted his impact; his Player Efficiency Rating (PER) was consistently among the league leaders, demonstrating his overall value to the team. He continued to improve his defensive presence, increasing his steals and blocks per game, showcasing his commitment to both ends of the court. This season also brought him his second All-Star selection and put him firmly in the MVP conversation.
Beyond raw statistics, SGA’s impact extends to intangible qualities. He demonstrates exceptional leadership on and off the court, setting an example for his teammates with his work ethic and dedication. His calm demeanor and clutch performances have made him a reliable player in critical situations. His ability to penetrate the defense, draw fouls, and make difficult shots consistently makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing teams.
In conclusion, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s statistical progression illustrates his consistent development into a bonafide superstar. From his humble beginnings as a role player to his current status as an MVP contender, SGA’s dedication to improvement and his multifaceted skill set have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA. As he continues to evolve, his statistics will undoubtedly continue to reflect his growing impact on the league.