Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Reveals Why He’s Not MVP, He Has A Point

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Svyato Rovenchuk | Last updated Jan 13, 2025 11:11 AM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder are having as great of a start as they could have to their 2024-25 NBA season. At a record of 32-6, the Thunder are towering above the Western Conference. Their six and a half-game lead at the top of the conference is largely owed to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The excellent start to the season is not all because of the Thunder superstar. Oklahoma City's strong depth and great coaching have definitely played a big part in the success of the Thunder as well.

However, it feels hard to ignore the elite play of Gilgeous-Alexander as the driving force of the team.

The Canadian guard is averaging 31.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. That phenomenal play, coupled with the team success of the Thunder, catapulted Gilgeous-Alexander to the top of the KIA NBA MVP Ladder this week.

However, despite the standout individual brilliance from last season's All-NBA First Team guard, the Thunder superstar does not believe himself to be the NBA MVP just yet. Gilgeous-Alexander pointed out one key reason for this belief.

"MVPs are never won after 40 games. 40 more of these and yeah, sure,” the Thunder guard told reporters.

While it sounds a little silly at first, Gilgeous-Alexander does have a good point with his response. There have been plenty of instances where early-season MVP candidates will fall off that trajectory as the year goes on.

It feels difficult to imagine that happening to the Canadian superstar in particular. However, it sounds like Gilgeous-Alexander is enthusiastic to prove himself as the 2024-25 NBA season marches on.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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