Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has had a season that defined the career that positioned him among the elite NBA superstars.
The new best player led the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Western Conference Finals, currently leading the Minnesota Timber Wolves 2-0.
His notable campaign offers a historic opportunity that has not been achieved for nearly a decade. Gilgeous-Alexander could be the first player since 2013’s Lebron James to win both the regular season MVP and the Final MVP awards that same year.
Additionally, he has the opportunity to join Stephen Curry since 2015 as the only player to win the MVP and Championship in the same season, potentially offering Oklahoma City’s first title in franchise history.
This successful foundation dates back to the 2019 trade that led Gilgauss Alexander to Oklahoma City.
The Thunder received two additional pix swaps in exchange for Shy Gilgaus Alexander, Danilo Garinari, five first-round draft picks, and two additional pix swaps in exchange for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Former Clippers coach Doc Rivers revealed fascinating details about the trade in a 2023 interview with Bill Simmons, explaining how Kawi Leonard’s championship demands influenced the decision.
“My response was getting Kawi and Paul George. I was happy. I raised it. “Man, can we give them someone else?”
Rivers tried to convince Kawi Leonard about the potential of Gilgauss Alexander, but the newly acquired superstar prioritized the contest for an immediate championship over long-term development.
“I kept saying, ‘You know, Kauhi, Shy is going to be a star,'” Rivers explained. “And (Leonard asked), “Well, how long?” “I don’t know how long, but he’ll be alone.” ”
Leonard ultimately insisted on trade, believing that the combination of himself and George would bring an immediate championship success to Los Angeles.
But that championship never happened.
Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander blossomed accurately in what the river predicted. At just 26 years old, he has developed into one of the league’s most complete security guards, averaging over 30 points per game, maintaining elite defensive standards.
The Thunder’s patience with their young stars created a championship foundation that the Clippers’ winning approach failed to achieve.
And now, with Gilgeous-Alexander leading Oklahoma City towards its first title, 2019 trade stands as a masterclass that recognizes and develops generational talent.
