May 18, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) dribbles against the Dallas Mavericks during the second quarter in game six of the second round of the 2024 NBA playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Jason Kidd Makes 7-Word Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Statement Before Mavericks-Thunder

Originally posted on Dallas Mavericks on SI
By Kade Kimble | Last updated Jan 17, 2025 8:13 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks are hosting the red-hot OKC Thunder in another rendition of the I-35 matchup. With a short trip between the two teams, the Mavericks, who remain without Luka Doncic, are hosting a Thunder team that dismantled the Cleveland Cavaliers just last night.

On top of Oklahoma City having blown out -- leading by as much as 40 points at one point -- Cleveland, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points through three quarters, adding to his MVP resume that much more.

Now, the Thunder are tied for the best record in the league with the Cavaliers, led by the superstar guard.

As the two teams are set to square off in the American Airlines Center, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd made a blunt assessment of Gilgeous-Alexander, claiming he's the best player right now, according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon.

“Shai is the best player right now," Kidd said.

Jason Kidd: “Shai is the best player right now.”
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) January 17, 2025

Kidd's statement certainly seems to be the case and fortunately for Dallas, Gilgeous-Alexander is a late scratch for the matchup as he was previously questionable to play.

This article first appeared on Dallas Mavericks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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