May 9, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) controls the ball in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets during game three of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Shai Gilgeous Alexanders Ex-Teammate Reacts to Thunder-Nuggets Game 4

Originally posted on Los Angeles Clippers on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated May 11, 2025 9:50 PM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder desperately needed a win against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday afternoon in a pivotal Game 4.

Most of the game was an absolute rock fight, with neither team being able to score. However, as the fourth quarter loomed, it was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who created the separation to create some momentum. The fourth quarter points Shai scored ultimately ended up becoming a deciding factor in Game 4.

Shai's former LA Clippers teammate Patrick Beverley reacted to the crucial fourth quarter minutes, giving praise to Shai's mid-range ability in the moment.

"and this why the Elite ones have a mid range. because games like this in playoffs you can still find a way to score," Beverley said.

and this why the Elite ones have a mid range. because games like this in playoffs you can still find a way to score. @PatBevPod
— Patrick Beverley (@patbev21) May 11, 2025

As teams get tired in the playoffs, especially while playing in Denver, they tend to settle for more three-point shots. Players will get too tired to drive to the rim, penetrate the paint, and make a real play. In those moments, that's where players like Kawhi Leonard, Nikola Jokic, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have to make a real impact.

One of the more surprising parts of the 2025 NBA playoffs is that there is a plethora of superstars struggling to shoot efficiently during it, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic.

It's tough to say just how well the Clippers would have fared against this Thunder team, but it's clear that LA was better than a mere first-round exit team.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Clippers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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