OKC Thunder 3 takeaways note 4Q collapse in loss to Heat

The OKC Thunder fell to a strong Miami Heat team despite some star power from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

There’s a pattern that you find when watching the Thunder play. They can get off to some awesome starts, or force teams with their ability to keep fighting. But it’s executing that really matters and it was something they couldn’t quite do against the Heat.

Three takeaways from the OKC Thunder’s loss to the Heat

No. 1: Shai goes off

Another game, and another chance to celebrate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

While it’s never fun losing, a win that Thunder fans can take away from this game is seeing SGA shine and show once again why he deserves to be an All-Star.

As OKC struggled to get past Miami’s unshakeable defense, SGA took charge and put up 27 points (game-high), 5 assists, one steal, one block, and two rebounds.

He’s assertive, shows tremendous leadership, and is able to flourish despite his team being down. However, OKC let Miami get away with the game in the third quarter, and ultimately a one-man show wasn’t enough.

With NBA All-Star reserves being announced today, there’s no reason why Shai shouldn’t hear his name called. Players in the league and the media know how great he is and we’ll have to wait to see if the NBA coaches also recognize him as an All-Star.

I say what a way to show up and show out especially at this time of the year. Here’s hoping the Thunder can get some wins to support all the work he’s putting in.