Why is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander not playing tonight against Mavericks? Latest on Thunder's MVP frontrunner's absence (Jan. 17)

The OKC Thunder faced the Dallas Mavericks on Friday at the American Airlines Center without their superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The two-time All-Star was ruled out just minutes before tip-off after going through his pregame routine.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who is dealing with right wrist soreness, missed his first game of the season. Despite testing his wrist in a pregame workout, the decision was made to sideline him as a precaution.

In his absence, the Thunder started with a lineup featuring Cason Wallace, Luguentz Dort, Jalen Williams, Aaron Wiggins and Jaylin Williams.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sustained a wrist injury during the Thunder’s dominant 134-114 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday. The young star was seen in visible discomfort after taking a hard fall while hustling for a play. Following the incident, Gilgeous-Alexander consulted with the team’s medical staff on the sidelines.

After the game, he addressed the media with his right wrist wrapped in an ice pack, sparking concern among fans and analysts.

Speaking to TNT's Jared Greenberg, the two-time All-Star downplayed the severity of the injury and expressed confidence in his ability to play. He even said that he would take the court for the Thunder’s back-to-back matchup against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday.

Magic Johnson calls Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the MVP

Five-time NBA champion and basketball legend Magic Johnson was thoroughly impressed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s outstanding performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday. On Friday, Johnson shared his thoughts, declaring the Thunder superstar as the league’s MVP.

"Last night Shai Gilgeous-Alexander proved to us all why he’ll be the most valuable player in the league this season scoring 40 points against the Cavs!" Magic tweeted.

Talking about the Canadian superstar's performance against the Cavaliers, he dropped 40 points in just 29 minutes while displaying his prowess on both ends of the court. He contributed three rebounds, eight assists and two steals to round out an impressive stat line.

Gilgeous-Alexander was exceptionally efficient, shooting 17 of 26 from the field, 1 of 5 from beyond the arc, and a flawless 5 of 5 from the free throw line.