Though many superstar guards in the modern NBA need a consistent three-point shot in order to find success, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is proving he can take care of business without consistently leaning on the three-point shot.
SGA is shooting the ball well from deep this season. In past years, he has been an up-and-down three-point shooter, but he's currently finding the bottom of the net more than 41 percent of the time from three-point land.
However, in Wednesday's 113-105 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, the reigning MVP instead utilized his mid-range and free-throw approach, and it worked to say the least.
Thunder star finding success despite not leaning on three-point shot
Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with 40 points on Wednesday night. He attempted just two total three-point shots, connecting on one, and went 12-for-19 from the field and 15-for-17 from the free throw line.
Gilgeous-Alexander implements an old-school style of play with a somewhat modern feel.
He has a step-back, something that has become more popularized over the years. As opposed to players such as James Harden and Luka Doncic, SGA's step-back is often seen in the mid-range instead of consistently from three-point land.
The Thunder star is a quality finisher. With that being said, he's even better at drawing contact and getting to the free-throw line. Gilgeous-Alexander's style of play on the drive rubs some fans the wrong way, as they believe he is often searching for a foul.
Regardless, he consistently gets to the charity stripe and takes advantage.
Gilgeous-Alexander entered Wednesday night's Thunder clash attempting 5.4 three-pointers per outing. While lower than many other star guards, SGA's mark is well above his career average of 3.8 three-point attempts per contest.
Shai is more than capable of taking long-range attempts. It certainly is not a weakness in his game. Still, he seems to be far more comfortable within the three-point line.
Gilgeous-Alexander's Thunder now hold a stellar 18-1 overall record so far this year.
It has been an incredible 2025-26 campaign for the team. They could have a chance to set a new single-season wins record if they can stay healthy.
Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander appears to be a serious candidate to take home the Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder's next game is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST in Oklahoma City against the Phoenix Suns on Friday night.