OKC Thunder erase 19 point deficit to claim 5th in a row: players grades
A. . PG. Oklahoma City Thunder. CHRIS PAUL
Chris Paul truly does exude the leadership DNA. There is a palpable quality you can see from the point guard. A combination of calm, passion and aggression that drives this team.
His energy and effort were visible to all as he returned from the timeout in the third and we simply knew the momentum tide was about to shift.
Although his 17 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and two steals were a great line it was his leadership that stoked his grade.
Run back the highlights and you’ll wonder if you’re catching a CP3 instructed dance class. Paul weaved and bobbed through the paint sending the Kings into fits trying to figure out if the vet was going to attempt a shot, run the pick and roll or jettison a pass – it was poetry in motion!
Of note, he tweaked his hand (looked like his pinky was wrapped) to which everyone held their collective breath given how healthy he’s been this season. He finished the game so hopefully, all is well.
SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER. A+. . G/F. Oklahoma City Thunder
It gets stated repeatedly but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to grow before our very eyes. Sure there was the whole second quarter and start of the third to erase but that falls on everyone.
His 20 points, three rebounds, three assists, block, and overall defense particularly late was spectacular. Spoiler: more on SGA on 3 takeaways.