Mark Daigneault picks out what’s different about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performances this season

Mark Daigneault says Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has improved as a playmaker

Last season, Gilgeous-Alexander had the best campaign of his NBA career. After all, SGA led the Thunder to an NBA Championship while winning the regular-season and finals MVP awards.

One may assume that was the peak of Shai’s talents, but coach Daigneault believes the 27-year-old has added another skill to his arsenal.

“In terms of his play, he looks about the same. The only thing that’s really shown up a little differently is he’s really starting to manipulate the game as a playmaker,” Daigneault said, per Nick Gallo on X.

He added: “The scoring has been loud, but some of the passes he’s made and the reads he’s made against the different coverages he’s seen in these first few games have been really good.”

Scoring has always been SGA’s most standout skill on the hardwood, but with improved playmaking, he could very well be on his way to winning back-to-back NBA MVPs.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s phenomenal start to the 2025-26 NBA season

Heading into the new season, Gilgeous-Alexander was viewed as the best player in the league. But even by his own standards, he has surpassed expectations.

For starters, SGA broke Michael Jordan’s unique record after just two games. Although LA Lakers superstar Luka Doncic surpassed SGA for the same, it’s still worth noting.

Speaking of his numbers, Gilgeous-Alexander is currently averaging 40.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game for the Thunder.

He is also shooting 52.7% from the field and 84.1% from the free-throw line. The only improvement he can make is his three-point shooting, as SGA is currently shooting 22.7% from deep.