“I knew I was around there, but I didn’t know exactly how many,” Gilgeous-Alexander revealed during the post-game press conference. “Once I heard the crowd, I was like, ‘OK, that must have been it’”.

The record-breaking moment occurred at the 7:04 mark of the third quarter. After receiving an assist from Cason Wallace, Gilgeous-Alexander knocked down a signature foot-jumper to cross the 20-point threshold for the night. The Paycom Center immediately exploded in celebration, signaling to the Canadian guard that he had officially made history.

Chamberlain had held the record for 63 years, having recorded 126 consecutive 20-point games between 1961 and 1963. The achievement adds to an already legendary resume for Gilgeous-Alexander, who is the reigning NBA champion, Finals MVP, and regular-season MVP.

The Thunder currently sit atop the Western Conference with an impressive 52–15 record. Gilgeous-Alexander remains the focal point of the team’s success, ranking second in the league in scoring with 31.8 points per game, while contributing 4.5 rebounds and 6.6 assists through 55 appearances this season.

SGA credits team culture for individual success

While Gilgeous-Alexander’s resume now includes an NBA Championship, a Finals MVP, and a regular-season MVP, he was quick to deflect praise toward the Thunder organization and his teammates.

“Basketball is a five-man sport. You can’t win by yourself,” he said. “You need great teammates, great role players, a great coach. I like to think we have all of those. None of the things I accomplished would matter if we weren’t winning. And I probably wouldn’t have most of them if we weren’t winning. That’s why you play the game”.

Last season, the Thunder recorded a total of 84 victories across the regular season and playoffs, culminating in an NBA Championship following a 4–3 series win over the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals.

So far this season, the team has already tallied 52 wins. With Shai continuing to perform at an elite level, that total is expected to climb significantly as the franchise looks to defend its title.

Despite facing bouts of inconsistency this season, the Knicks left a strong impression during the narrow defeat, showcasing the resilient attitude that has them sitting third in the Eastern Conference. Speaking with reporters post-game, Gilgeous-Alexander did not hesitate to label New York a formidable postseason threat.

“Good team. Obviously, a good offense, then they have really good defenders up there as well, so they’re well-balanced,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “They’re obviously [near] the top of the East for a reason. They’re a good team, playoff team. Really good roster”.

The Knicks went into the locker room trailing by 10 and appeared to be in deep trouble when the Thunder extended their lead to 63-48 early in the third quarter. However, New York responded with an incredible 24-9 run, capped by a Jalen Brunson triple, to take an 80-77 lead into the final frame.

While Oklahoma City managed to regain the lead early in the fourth and hold on for the win, the performance served as a statement of character for the Knicks. Their ability to battle back against the defending champions reinforced their status as title contenders—a sentiment echoed by Gilgeous-Alexander’s assessment from the floor.

Knicks starters struggle with efficiency

While the Knicks showcased impressive collective resilience during their comeback effort against the Thunder, the individual performances of the starting unit told a story of shooting struggles. Despite the narrow 103-100 defeat, the contest highlighted a disparity in efficiency among New York’s primary rotation.

Karl-Anthony Towns was the clear standout for the home side, dominating the interior to finish with a double-double. Towns was nearly automatic from the floor, scoring 17 points on a remarkably efficient 7-of-8 shooting while cleaning up the glass with 17 rebounds before eventually fouling out late in the fourth quarter.

In contrast, the rest of the starting lineup found it difficult to find their rhythm. Jalen Brunson facilitated the offense at an elite level, dishing out a season-high 15 assists, but his scoring touch was absent for much of the night. The star point guard managed just 16 points on a cold 5-of-18 shooting performance, including a 2-of-5 mark from beyond the arc.

The shooting woes extended across the perimeter for New York. Josh Hart finished with 10 points on 4-of-11 shooting, while the wing duo of OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges combined for a difficult night; Anunoby tallied 16 points on 6-of-17 shooting, and Bridges mirrored those struggles with 15 points on a 6-of-17 clip.

A bright spot for the Knicks’ depth was the play of Landry Shamet. Coming off the bench, Shamet provided a necessary offensive spark, contributing 14 points and proving to be a vital component of the rotation as New York nearly pulled off the upset against the Western Conference leaders.

For the Lakers, star guard Luka Doncic has been ruled out of the matchup against Oklahoma City due to a left hamstring strain. This marks the second consecutive game missed by Doncic, who suffered the injury during L.A.’s 119-115 win over the Philadelphia 76ers last Thursday.

On the Thunder’s side, reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been officially ruled out against the Lakers with an abdominal strain. This will be his third consecutive game missed, and the injury is expected to keep him sidelined through the All-Star break. Oklahoma City’s current two-game losing streak has coincided with his absence.

Luka Doncic’s season numbers

Doncic has appeared in 42 games for the Lakers this season, averaging 32.8 points, 8.6 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. He leads the league in points per contest and was recently named an All-Star for the sixth time in his career.

The Lakers are 5-4 in the nine games Doncic has missed, including a win over the Golden State Warriors on Saturday. With Austin Reaves and LeBron James active, Los Angeles still has the firepower to compete against a Shai Gilgeous-Alexander-less Oklahoma City squad.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s season numbers

Gilgeous-Alexander has played in 49 games for the Thunder, posting averages of 31.8 points, 6.4 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. His consistent production keeps him in a serious MVP conversation this season.

Even without these star players, Monday’s matchup remains a must-watch, highlighting the depth and talent across both franchises as they battle for positioning in the NBA Western Conference standings.

Before the upcoming matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Wembanyama spoke with ESPN about his recovery and broader topics surrounding the NBA landscape. As the Spurs prepared to face reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the French phenom took the opportunity to praise his opponent while drawing a clear line in the ongoing best player discussion.

“Jokic is the best offensive player, but I don’t think he’s the best player,” Wembanyama said when asked to name the NBA’s top talent. He narrowed the conversation to two names, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, emphasizing their complete impact on both ends of the floor and signaling his belief that dominance extends beyond scoring efficiency alone.

Wembanyama went a step further by projecting confidence in his own future standing. “When I come back to the court, it will be me,” he added, reinforcing the self belief that has defined his rookie season. The 7 foot 5 center was set to return after missing 12 games with a left calf strain, an absence that temporarily slowed his momentum but did little to quiet the conversation around his ceiling.

Wembanyama’s numbers this season

Prior to the injury, Wembanyama was averaging 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.6 blocks per game while shooting 50.2 percent from the field. His production placed him firmly in early season MVP discussions, and he has consistently stated that he expects to elevate his play even further once fully healthy.

The controversial comment

Leaving Jokic out of the best player conversation was the most polarizing aspect of Wembanyama’s remarks. The Denver Nuggets superstar has long been praised for his intelligence, efficiency, and ability to control games, making his exclusion surprising to many around the league.

Jokic currently owns the best defensive rating on the Nuggets at 111.4, a detail often overlooked due to his offensive brilliance. Still, Wembanyama pointed to defense as a deciding factor, suggesting that overall dominance requires elite impact on both sides of the ball.

In contrast, Gilgeous-Alexander has anchored one of the league’s strongest defensive units with the Thunder, while Giannis Antetokounmpo remains widely regarded as one of the NBA’s premier two way forces and a former Defensive Player of the Year. Whether fans agree or not, Wembanyama’s comments reinforced a growing reality: his voice already carries weight in defining the NBA’s present and future.

However, there’s uncertainty surrounding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s availability for today’s matchup against the Timberwolves. According to the latest injury report, he is listed as questionable for the game.

With Gilgeous-Alexander’s status up in the air, other Thunder players are poised to step up in tonight’s contest. Chet Holmgren, for instance, is anticipated to play a significant role against Minnesota.

On the other hand, the Timberwolves are expected to have Anthony Edwards on the court. His presence could prove crucial, especially as the team currently has a relatively short injury list, which bodes well for this crucial game at home against the defending NBA champions.

OKC’s full injury report

With Gilgeous-Alexander’s status questionable for tonight’s clash with the Timberwolves, the Thunder are also dealing with other absences, which leave certain players unavailable for this NBA Cup matchup.

The Thunder’s full injury report is as follows:

• Questionable: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
• Out: Thomas Sorber, Nikola Topic, Aaron Wiggins, and Jalen Williams

Timberwolves’ full injury report

With Anthony Edwards expected to be in action for today’s game against the Thunder, Timberwolves fans are eagerly awaiting details on other unavailable players for this pivotal showdown with the reigning NBA champions.

The Timberwolves’ full injury report lists:

• Out: Rocco Zikarsky (G League – Two-Way)

Following the game, an intriguing incident was highlighted by Gilgeous-Alexander involving Durant. At the conclusion of the first overtime, Durant attempted to call a timeout, but the officials did not acknowledge it. “None of the three game officials saw Kevin signal that timeout. That’s why it wasn’t granted before the expiration of time,” explained crew chief Zach Zarba to the NBA.

“Kevin definitely called timeout about three times, both verbally and with hand signals. I think the refs just missed it,” stated the Thunder‘s star, asserting that he clearly saw Durant doing everything possible to communicate the timeout request.

Gilgeous-Alexander further commented that he viewed it as a simple human error rather than a deliberate oversight. “That’s life. You make mistakes in life. They didn’t do it on purpose,” the Thunder star acknowledged. The Rockets were out of timeouts, so if the refs noticed Durant’s call, it would have resulted in two free throws for the Thunder.

Durant reflects on being booed by Thunder fans

As one of the most prominent figures in OKCr’s history, Durant addressed the moment he was booed by Thunder fans, providing insight into his relationship with the city and its supporters.

“It’s part of the culture here in OKC to boo me when my name is announced, but I believe it’s all love beyond that,” Durant told the media. “Whether I’m on the court, at the hotel, or simply walking around town, I always feel an overwhelming sense of love and respect. People constantly express their appreciation for my time here, and I share that sentiment.”

Durant analyzes his performance

Reflecting on the overtime loss to the Rockets, Durant discussed his defensive challenges during the game and how it influenced the outcome of a matchup they had the chance to bounce back.

“I believe those two plays were crucial in our loss. I need to perform better and maintain my composure,” Durant commented. “Opportunities to make stops and secure the game don’t come often, and I have to capitalize on them.”

As the next season approaches, Gilgeous-Alexander was interviewed about his NBA journey, drawing a parallel to LeBron James, one of the few players who has opted to continue playing at the age of 40.

“I definitely think I can… I won’t, though… I wouldn’t want to miss that much of my kid’s life… And there’s a certain point in your career where you reach your peak. I don’t fault guys for still playing. They love the game,“ Gilgeous-Alexander shared in an interview with GQ Magazine.

He continued: “But I just feel like I play this game, ultimately, to see what the best version of me can be. Once I figure that out and I start going down, then it’s like, Okay, well, what am I playing for now? As soon as that happens, I’ll be on the first ship out.”

Gilgeous-Alexander’s admiration for Kobe Bryant

In a recent interview, Oklahoma City Thunder star was asked about the historical player he aspires to emulate or surpass. In response, he cited none other than Kobe Bryant, indicating a high benchmark for his career trajectory and hinting at the potential to reach such esteemed heights if he can continue his impressive form.

“I pick up a basketball to be the best. If you’re asking me if I want to be better than Kobe, of course I do. Whether I get there or not, we’ll find out,” Gilgeous-Alexander remarked, expressing his ambition to surpass one of the game’s legendary figures in the annals of NBA history.

As the upcoming season approaches, both Shai and the Oklahoma City Thunder are poised to become the team that poses a significant challenge to every contender, especially as the reigning champions aim to defend their NBA title. The stage is set for an intriguing season, with Gilgeous-Alexander’s ambition fueling the Thunder’s competitive drive.

Even if the Thunder did not make any moves during the offseason, head coach Mark Daigneault managed to keep his star-studded roster intact and secured key contract renewals, positioning them as top contenders once again. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks made bold changes to their roster, blending youth and experience in an effort to climb the league standings after a disappointing season.

Looking ahead to the game, the Thunder might once again miss their cornerstone, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Although healthy, the 27-year-old star is being strategically rested by the franchise in preparation for the 2025 NBA season. In his place, the team will rely on Aaron Wiggins, Ousmane Dieng, and Jaylin Williams to lead the offense, just as they did in the previous game.

The Dallas Mavericks are set to make a statement in their NBA preseason opener against the Thunder. Head coach Jason Kidd will tap into the talents of rising star Cooper Flag, who impressed during the Summer League. While Flag’s participation is eagerly anticipated, the team will carefully manage his minutes and starting status, underscoring its commitment to his long-term development.

Thunder and Mavs manage additional injuries before NBA preseason game

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is not the only absence for the Oklahoma City Thunder in their NBA preseason matchup. Seven crucial players will miss the game, with a mix of strategic decisions and injuries affecting the lineup. Mark Daigneault has opted to rest Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort, and Isaiah Hartenstein, while injuries sideline Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, Kenrich Williams, and Thomas Sorber, highlighting the challenges faced by the team.

Similarly, the Dallas Mavericks approach today’s contest with notable absences of their own. Kyrie Irving, Daniel Gafford, and Brandon Williams will be sidelined due to injury concerns. Nonetheless, head coach Jason Kidd remains optimistic, relying on the talents of D’Angelo Russell, Klay Thompson, and Anthony Davis to provide a competitive edge and maintain team momentum despite the roster gaps.

Unlike many franchises, the Oklahoma City Thunder have strategically chosen to focus on retaining their core players rather than seeking new additions. This commitment solidifies Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams as the offensive leaders, setting high expectations for a return to top contender status in the 2025-26 NBA season.

As Thunder prepare to face the Charlotte Hornets, head coach Mark Daigneault is poised to rely heavily on Gilgeous-Alexander to orchestrate the offense. Despite the game being a preseason matchup, the 27-year-old is expected to deliver a standout performance as he’s returning from a stellar season where he earned the MVP honors for both the regular season and the finals.

Thunder still face key absences in NBA preseason opener vs Hornets

Head coach Mark Daigneault is gearing up for the preseason opener with Shai leading the lineup. However, he faces the challenge of navigating key absences. Jalen Williams, sidelined by a wrist injury, will miss the entire preseason. Kenrich Williams, grappling with lingering issues, will not return until early November. Meanwhile, a major setback struck as rookie Thomas Sorber is out for the season with a torn ACL.

Despite facing significant absences, the Thunder boast a deep roster that allows them to remain competitive without major issues. Head coach Mark Daigneault can strategically manage player minutes, providing opportunities for some unexpected stars to shine. This preseason, the franchise appears to prioritize regaining competitive rhythm over securing wins, as it sets its sights on capturing another championship.

What’s next for Thunder in the NBA preseason after facing Hornets?

After clashing with the Charlotte Hornets, the Oklahoma City Thunder gear up for a hectic two-week schedule. They kick off their road trip by taking on the Dallas Mavericks on October 6 in their second preseason matchup. The Thunder then return home to host the Hornets in a rematch, before closing out the week with a trip to Indiana to challenge the Pacers.

The action-packed fortnight continues, as Oklahoma City prepare for two pivotal games from October 12-18. On October 14, they hit the road to face the formidable Milwaukee Bucks, and they wrap up their first two weeks of preseason by hosting the Denver Nuggets on October 17.

According to NBA insider Jon Krawczynski, Anthony Edwards has chosen to step away from social media, directing his energy toward enhancing his form. The Timberwolves star aims to elevate his game to become a clutch performer akin to Los Angeles Lakers standout Luka Doncic or Oklahoma City Thunder’s star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Through focused training and mental preparation, he seeks to make his mark on the league by delivering in critical moments.

Anthony Edwards stands out with a relentless work ethic and a remarkable capacity for self-critique. The Timberwolves’ star recently completed a career-defining season, averaging 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 79 games. Despite this success, he remains focused on growth, aiming to become the first American MVP since James Harden by leading the franchise to the championship.

While becoming a scoring powerhouse for the Timberwolves, Edwards’s overall impact still doesn’t meet the comprehensive level required for MVP consideration. In contrast, players like Shai or Doncic shine by combining scoring with playmaking, enhancing their influence, especially in high-stakes playoff situations. However, Anthony already displayed some of his all-around capacity in the series against the Lakers, making a promising evolution ahead of the upcoming season.

Former NBA champions Iman Shumpert and Mario Chalmers reveal huge prediction for Anthony Edwards’ future

Unlike other talents who emerged impressively in the NBA, Anthony Edwards has managed not only to maintain his impact but to surpass it. Additionally, his exceptional physique and work ethic make him one of the most promising players in the league. With this in mind, former league players Iman Shumpert and Mario Chalmers have made an impressive prediction about the near future of the Minnesota Timberwolves star.

In a recent episode of the YouTube show All In, former NBA stars Iman Shumpert and Mario Chalmers shared their bold prediction: Anthony Edwards will clinch the MVP award within the next three years. They emphasized that for this to happen, he must continue refining and simplifying his game. Given his impressive trajectory, the forecast appears increasingly plausible as he has been pivotal in elevating the franchise to its best seasons in years.

Thunder swingman Jalen Williams, one of the league’s rising stars and a first-time All-Star last season, has already voiced his concerns. Speaking on how the league could restore the event’s credibility, Williams laid out what he sees as a simple solution.

Williams, who earned his first All-Star selection last year, believes the problem comes down to incentives and structure. “I think it’s an easy fix,” Williams said on the Out the Mud podcast. “With everything, it’s just like, incentivize playing hard and maybe make the game shorter, and just play. I barely played in it because of the format. We only get a couple of quarters to play, and that’s it. I felt like I really wasn’t out there.”

In fact, Thunder star only logged eight minutes despite being a starter for Team Kenny. He went 1-of-3 from the field and scored just two points in a nine-point loss to Team Chuck. The NBA’s most recent attempt to change the format fell flat, and Williams made it clear that the real issue is with the players’ approach.

“I think we’re trying to do a little too much with it,” Williams added. “I think we’re trying to make it entertaining when it’s really just up to us to play a little harder. That’s what people want to see. I’m down to do it. People don’t really want to watch the sideline stuff; they want to watch the LeBrons and Stephs go at each other.”

The All-Star Game problem

It’s no secret that All-Star Weekend has steadily lost both quality and viewership over the years. In past decades — from the 80s through the early 2000s — the weekend was one of the most anticipated stretches of the NBA calendar. Legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Allen Iverson made it a point to compete and showcase their talent when the spotlight was brightest.

On All-Star Sunday, even if players didn’t go all out, there was still a sense of competitiveness that gave fans memorable moments. In the modern era, however, the effort level has noticeably dropped. The lack of intensity from today’s All-Stars has stripped away much of the event’s prestige.

The dunk contest and three-point shootout, once highlights of the weekend, have also declined. With fewer star participants and less enthusiasm, fans are left wanting more. The situation has reached the point where some players don’t even bother showing up for the All-Star Game at all. LeBron James, for example, skipped last year’s event, citing an ankle injury that conveniently kept him out of action that night.

The NBA faces a growing challenge: how to bring back the competitiveness and pride that once defined the All-Star experience. If the league cannot find a way to reignite the passion of its biggest stars, the All-Star Game risks losing even more relevance in seasons to come.