“We knew Shai was going to be really, really good, but he’s special,” George said after he had 38 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals in a Jan. 16 home win over the Thunder. “And so I guess in a way, Oklahoma won that trade with picks and a future MVP.” Gilgeous-Alexander had arrived among the NBA’s elite. The Thunder seemed to be on the path to perennial title contention. The question about Oklahoma City entering this season: How soon? Gilgeous-Alexander, 25, is the oldest starter on an Oklahoma City squad that comes out of the All-Star break with a 37-17 record and in second place in the West standings, half a game ahead of the Clippers entering their Thursday night meeting. Rookie of the Year candidate Holmgren and Williams are rising stars who fit well with Gilgeous-Alexander. -via ESPN / February 21, 2024