Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Silences MVP Debate With Game 7 Masterclass—Chet Holmgren Says It's Over
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Image via: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a dominant 125-93 victory over the Denver Nuggets in Game 7 of their second-round playoff series, advancing to the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2016. After the game, Thunder center Chet Holmgren made a strong statement about teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP case, declaring the debate between SGA and Nikola Jokic officially settled.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivers MVP performance in Game 7
Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with a game-high 35 points on an efficient 12-19 shooting, cementing his case as the league's most valuable player. His performance came at the perfect time, as the Thunder overcame a slow start to dismantle the Nuggets in front of their home crowd.
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Despite early struggles from three-point range, Oklahoma City locked in defensively and never looked back, stretching their lead to as many as 43 points. The Nuggets, still led by their 2023 championship core, had no answers and were forced to concede early in the fourth quarter.
Chet Holmgren ends the MVP debate
In the postgame interview, Holmgren left no doubt about where he stands on the MVP race. Pointing to Gilgeous-Alexander, he said, 'You know who this is? The MVP.' The statement, captured by ESPN and shared by ClutchPoints on X, reinforced what many have believed all season—that SGA deserves the award.
The NBA has yet to officially announce the MVP winner, which is unusual given that the award is typically revealed by this stage of the playoffs. However, Gilgeous-Alexander has been the frontrunner for months, and his Game 7 masterpiece only strengthens his case.
Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP-worthy season
Throughout the regular season, Gilgeous-Alexander was the driving force behind the Thunder's league-best 68-win record. He averaged 32 points, five rebounds, and six assists per game while shooting an impressive 52% from the field, 38% from three, and 90% from the free-throw line. His consistency and leadership elevated Oklahoma City to new heights, making them a legitimate title contender.
With the Thunder now set to face Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, the MVP announcement is expected soon. If voters needed any final confirmation, Gilgeous-Alexander's Game 7 performance provided it.
Also read:
Aaron Gordon Erupts at Refs in Game 7 Meltdown: 'Get Him the F— Off Me!' After Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Call
Thunder shift focus to Timberwolves
The win over Denver sets up an exciting matchup between two of the NBA's brightest young teams. The Timberwolves, led by Edwards, present a new challenge, but the Thunder have proven they can handle elite competition.
As Oklahoma City prepares for the next round, one thing is clear: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander isn't just the MVP in Chet Holmgren's eyes—he's the MVP, period.
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