Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has become the undisputed king of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and his MVP-caliber performance in the playoffs only reinforces his rise to the top of the NBA elite. As the sole representative of the Thunder in a competitive list of top NBA players, Shai’s display of skill, poise, and leadership has cast a brilliant spotlight on his already stellar career. His impact on the court has outshone not just his teammates but has elevated him into the conversation with the league’s greatest stars. The 2024 playoffs marked a significant milestone in his ascent as one of the NBA’s premier players, and his performances solidified his place as the undisputed leader of a franchise that is rebuilding its way to prominence.
At just 25 years old, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has already proven that he is one of the most versatile and skilled players in the league. His performance in the 2024 postseason was nothing short of spectacular. With the Oklahoma City Thunder on the rise, a team that has long been seen as a work-in-progress post-Westbrook and Durant, Shai’s transformation into a genuine MVP contender was cemented by his ability to single-handedly carry the team on his back. While many NBA teams relied on deep rosters to make deep playoff runs, the Thunder’s success, particularly in the playoffs, was dependent on Shai’s ability to consistently deliver on the biggest stages.
Throughout the regular season, Shai had already established himself as one of the league’s top players. His ability to score in multiple ways—whether it be from beyond the arc, in the mid-range, or at the rim—made him a nightmare for opposing defenders. His long, lean frame combined with his agility allowed him to get to any spot on the floor, and his high basketball IQ gave him a unique ability to navigate through defenses. However, it was in the playoffs where Shai took his game to a level that few could have predicted, even for a player of his obvious talent.
From the opening series, Shai’s dominance was evident. Facing off against some of the best teams the NBA had to offer, his performances in the clutch stood out. His ability to finish games with calmness and confidence is something that many young players are still developing, but for Shai, it was almost second nature. Whether it was making a game-winning shot, hitting crucial free throws, or simply keeping his team in the game when it seemed like all hope was lost, Shai proved that he wasn’t just a young star but a legitimate MVP-caliber player.
In fact, his performances throughout the postseason echoed the type of play one would expect from the game’s most elite players. His offensive efficiency, the breadth of his skills, and his defensive contributions were all a testament to his well-rounded game. He wasn’t just scoring; he was doing it efficiently. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates also came to the forefront, making him a dual-threat as both a scorer and a playmaker. The Thunder’s offense often flowed through him, and his ability to both facilitate and finish made the team a threat on any given night.
But what truly set Shai apart from other players in the playoffs was his leadership. The Thunder roster, while filled with young talent, was still in a development phase. Shai wasn’t just a player; he was the guiding force on the floor. His leadership style wasn’t necessarily vocal, but it was evident in the way he played. He led by example, pushing his teammates to elevate their play. When the Thunder faced adversity, it was Shai who lifted the team with timely shots, lockdown defense, and the type of relentless effort that is the hallmark of an MVP player.
In the regular season, MVP candidates often rely on their teammates to help them succeed, but in the playoffs, it’s about a player taking control when it matters most. Shai’s playmaking ability, combined with his clutch scoring, was a major reason the Thunder were able to stay competitive in games they might have otherwise lost. He carried the burden of an entire franchise on his shoulders, and time after time, he answered the call.
His individual stats in the postseason were outstanding, and they showed that he could go toe-to-toe with the league’s very best. Averaging over 30 points per game, Shai’s scoring was both efficient and timely. His ability to get to the free-throw line, along with his elite finishing around the rim, made him nearly impossible to stop. What was most impressive, however, was his consistency. Whether the Thunder were up by 20 or down by 10, Shai’s level of play didn’t fluctuate. His poise in high-pressure situations is something that is often the difference between an MVP-caliber player and one who falters in the spotlight.
On defense, Shai was just as effective. His length and athleticism allowed him to guard multiple positions, and his defensive IQ allowed him to make key stops in critical moments. While his defense may not always get the recognition that his offensive prowess does, Shai’s ability to disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and secure rebounds in key moments proved that he was a complete player. He understood that championships aren’t just won with offense, and his defense was a crucial part of the Thunder’s success. He played with a tenacity that elevated the entire team, as they fed off his energy on both ends of the court.
Another aspect of Shai’s playoff performances that stands out is his ability to perform under pressure. In game after game, he proved that he thrives in the moments when others might crumble. Whether it was hitting a game-winning shot, making the right decision in crunch time, or simply stepping up when his team needed him the most, Shai delivered. His unflappable demeanor on the court made him a player who could be relied upon in the highest-leverage moments, a trait that all MVP candidates must possess. His ability to manage the game, not just with scoring but with decision-making, allowed him to control the tempo and flow of every contest.
As the Thunder look ahead, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance in the 2024 playoffs was a clear indication that the franchise’s future is in good hands. His ability to shoulder such a heavy load and still play at a high level demonstrated that he is capable of leading the team through the ups and downs of a playoff series. His performances were reminiscent of some of the game’s greatest players, and there’s little doubt that his trajectory will continue to rise in the coming years.
Looking ahead, there are questions about how Shai will evolve as the Thunder continue to build around him. The franchise has accumulated young talent, and with each passing year, they will become more competitive. For Shai, this is the perfect environment to continue refining his game. The team is set up to grow together, and Shai’s leadership will be central to that process. While the team will likely add more pieces to complement him, it’s clear that Shai will remain the centerpiece for the Thunder as they aim for future championships.
The idea that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the top players in the league is no longer a question—it’s a statement. His performances in the 2024 playoffs answered any lingering doubts about his status as a future MVP. By dominating on both ends of the floor, leading his team through adversity, and putting up MVP-level numbers, Shai has proven that he is an elite talent, one who is destined to be the face of the Thunder for years to come. His performance not only validated his place as a rising superstar but also underscored the bright future of the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise. As the undisputed king of his team, Shai’s reign in Oklahoma City is just beginning, and the league should expect to see much more of his brilliance in the years to come.
