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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander answers Dillon Brooks talk with standout display vs Suns
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- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander answers Dillon Brooks talk with standout display vs Suns
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander entered Saturday with scrutiny surrounding his scoring methods. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard had become a central figure in debates about officiating and offensive efficiency during the series.
After Game 2, Dillon Brooks described him as "a little frail" when discussing foul calls. The remark aligned with a wider narrative suggesting Gilgeous-Alexander's numbers were heavily influenced by frequent trips to the free throw line.
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That context framed Game 3 against the Phoenix Suns as a defining moment. It offered the MVP contender the chance to respond directly, using his on-court production to challenge those claims.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dismantles Phoenix Suns without relying on free throws
Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images
Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a commanding response in the Thunder's 121-109 win. He scored 42 points while shooting an outstanding 83.3% from the field, showcasing elite efficiency across the floor.
Although he added 11 points from free throws, his performance was driven by precise shot-making. He consistently created high-quality looks and converted them at a remarkable rate against a struggling Suns defence.
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Beyond scoring, he recorded eight assists and four rebounds, maintaining control of the game's tempo.
According to Real App, SGA's latest display stands as the second-highest field goal percentage ever in a 40-point playoff game.
OKC star matches Devin Booker playoff benchmark
The display also carried historical significance. According to StatMuse, Gilgeous-Alexander became the first player since 2023 to record 40 or more points on at least 80% shooting in a playoff game.
That previous benchmark was set by Phoenix's Devin Booker, making the achievement particularly notable.
By reaching that level against Booker's team, the OKC superstar reinforced his standing among the league's elite scorers and provided a clear response to recent criticism.
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