On July 10, 2019, the LA Clippers made a significant move by acquiring Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in a blockbuster deal. This trade marked the Clippers as legitimate contenders in the NBA but came at the cost of trading promising young guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Despite the initial shock, Gilgeous-Alexander understood the trade and used it as motivation to improve his game. In his fifth season with the Thunder, he has emerged as one of the NBA's leading MVP candidates, showcasing his talent and potential.
Meanwhile, the Clippers have yet to capitalize on their acquisitions, facing challenges due to injuries to Leonard and George. The Thunder, on the other hand, have benefited from the trade, with Gilgeous-Alexander becoming a cornerstone player for the franchise.
General manager Sam Presti expressed confidence in Gilgeous-Alexander's potential, emphasizing the need for patience in his development. The young guard has exceeded expectations, earning accolades such as Most Improved Player and a spot on the All-NBA team.
Despite a period of rebuilding for the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander's commitment to the franchise was evident when he signed a lucrative contract extension. His stellar performances have propelled Oklahoma City to second place in the Western Conference standings, raising questions about their playoff potential.
With a talented roster and Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way, the Thunder are poised for success in the postseason. The guard's focus on staying in the moment and continuous improvement reflects the team's mindset as they aim for a deep playoff run.
