Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander playing tonight against the Phoenix Suns? Latest on Thunder star's status (Apr. 9)

Modified Apr 09, 2025 13:15 GMT

OKC Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gestures after scoring against the Indiana Pacers at Paycom Center. Photo Credit: Imagn

OKC Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has not missed a game since Mar. 19 and the point guard is expected to suit up and take the court once again against the Phoenix Suns at the PHX Arena on Wednesday night.

The Thunder have already locked up the first seed in the West and hold a commanding 13-game lead over the second-place Houston Rockets, but that hasn't stopped coach Mark Daigneault from putting out strong lineups.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been one of Daigneault's most trusted players on the court, leading the lineup with 76 starts. He also leads the roster in minutes with 34.2 mpg, which places him 29th in the league in the category.

Following a gruelling seven-day stretch that included games against the Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets and back-to-back games against the LA Lakers, Mark Daigneault may consider limiting Gilgeous-Alexander in this encounter.

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In his last outing against the LA Lakers, Gilgeous-Alexander played 37 minutes, more than any other Thunder player.

One motivating factor for the talented guard will be the MVP race, which is yet to be decided.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the firm favorite to take home his first-ever MVP crown, but Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic has battled him every step of the way. With just three games remaining in the Thunder's season, the Canadian guard will want to finish strong, and leave a lasting impression on the voters.

Jokic's numbers have been fantastic this season, with the Serbian big man averaging 30.0 points, 12.8 rebounds, 10.2 assists and 1.8 steals.

In comparison, Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.7 steals.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put on dazzling 50-point display in last outing against the Suns

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dribbles past Sacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis at the Golden 1 Center. Photo Credit: Imagn

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has had a handful of astonishing performances but perhaps one of his most impressive came against the Phoenix Suns on Feb. 5.

The gifted scorer put on a dazzling display for the 17,451 fans at the Paycom Center, finishing with an incredible 50 points and shooting 18-of-29 from the field. He chipped in with eight rebounds, five assists and two steals to guide his team to a dominant 140-109 win on the night.

This season, Gilgeous-Alexander has recorded 50 points or more on four occasions, a truly remarkable feat. His season-high came against the Utah Jazz on Jan 22. That night he finished with 54 to carry the Thunder to a 123-114 victory.

About the author

Sahir Bhojwani is a sports enthusiast who has covered a range of sports over his career. Since completing his Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies he has gone on to work with numerous companies in the media and tech sector and has over 14 years of experience.

As a writer, his goal is to create informative, data-driven, historically accurate pieces that focus on the fascinating world of sport.

His favorite team is the Golden State Warriors because he lived in the Bay Area for many years and they have an exciting and entertaining brand of basketball. Sahir's favorite coach is the late Jimmy Valvano, for his tenure at North Carolina State. Although he never coached in the NBA, Valvano is considered one of the top coaches and great basketball minds in the history of the game.

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Edited by Sahir Bhojwani