Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Faces Rising Expectations in Oklahoma City

In Oklahoma City, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has transitioned from being an unrecognized player on a struggling team to an elite All-Star. His journey includes significant improvements in his defensive skills, which contributed to the Thunder's unexpected success, culminating in a playoff appearance last season. Despite the rising expectations surrounding him and the team, Gilgeous-Alexander emphasizes a day-to-day focus on improvement, a mindset that has been pivotal in their recent achievements. The Thunder are now integrating new players, Isaiah Hartenstein and Alex Caruso, into their established roster, aiming to maintain team camaraderie. Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership has evolved, becoming more vocal as he guides his teammates, reflecting his growth both on and off the court. His performance at the Olympics, where he averaged 21 points, further solidified his status as a key player for both his country and the Thunder. As the new season approaches, the team is committed to building on their past successes while fostering a strong team dynamic.