Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP campaign: 3 reasons why OKC superstar deserves the accolade
As of January 10, 2025, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the NBA in the Kia MVP ladder. Last week, Nikola Jokic led the race and was in the lead for a few months. The reason why SGA is now in the lead is because of his efforts to beat the defending champions Boston Celtics and nearly beat the Eastern Conference's best team the Cleveland Cavaliers.
In the OKC Thunder's game against the Celtics on Sunday, Gilgeous-Alexander carried his team with 33 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, three steals and two blocks in a 105-92 victory. Then against the Cavs on Wednesday, despite losing that game, SGA posted 31 points, five rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocks.
To perform the way that he did against two of the NBA's best teams and still help the Thunder remain atop the Western Conference is proof of his incredible value.
All that said, we're going to break down five reasons why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deserves the 2025 Kia NBA MVP award.
Note: This listicle reflects the opinions of the writer solely. Readers should take this with a grain of salt.
3 reasons why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deserves to win MVP
#1 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led OKC Thunder to top spot in the West
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's numbers (31.5 points on 53% shooting, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists) are on par with guys like Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo. While the two big men technically have better averages overall compared to the OKC Thunder star, Gilgeous-Alexander's numbers are putting his team on top of the Western Conference this season.
Looking at the Thunder's standing, they're sitting on top of the conference with a 31-6 record. With the way SGA has performed so far, it's been quite difficult for teams to beat OKC.
#2 SGA is doing everything on the hardwood
Most NBA players are usually known for a special trait that they possess. However, when it comes to Gilgeous-Alexander, it seems that the Thunder star is a jack of all trades. While his fellow NBA MVP candidates are averaging double-doubles, SGA is providing numbers in every major statistical category. Meaning to say, he's providing points, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals every game.
Aside from his impressive offensive numbers, he's also averaging 2.0 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. What's even more impressive is that his defensive numbers are on par with a lot of big men in the league considering that he plays in the guard position.
#3 Gilgeous-Alexander has been readily available for OKC
Being the best player on your team is one thing, but always being present is difficult to do in today's NBA. Many explosive basketball players tend to get hurt more easily compared to others. However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has done a good job of taking care of himself.
As of this publishing, SGA has yet to miss a game for the OKC Thunder this season. His consistent availability on the hardwood should factor in his MVP candidacy as it is a sign of his effort to lead his team without a fault.