In the highly anticipated Game 1 between the two MVP frontrunners, Nikola Jokić had the last laugh against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Denver Nuggets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder with a 121-119 scoreline, putting Game 1 to bed. As usual, fans have divided opinions regarding the potential MVP winner between Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokić.
Hence, Game 1 became the perfect example of the quality of these two superstars. This series looks far from done, with both teams playing effectively. However, SGA made the difference despite the devastating loss, scoring 33 points.
So, let’s explore Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance in Game 1 and how he kept the Thunder in the game despite losing the contest.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Denver Nuggets: Game 1 Stats
Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Nuggets: How Did Gilgeous-Alexander Perform in Game 1?
The sensational Gilgeous-Alexander started strong, scoring points in a bunch. He had 10+ points in the first quarter alone and looked strong for a long scoring night. He had some pretty plays in the quarter, especially at the 8:51-minute mark when the 2025 NBA scoring champion had a lovely spin move to score a bucket.
SGA SPINNING & HITTING 😮💨
Nuggets-Thunder | Game 1 on TNT pic.twitter.com/o4Q6WlSjQj
— NBA (@NBA) May 6, 2025
He went quiet in the second quarter, scoring just free throws. But when he’s not scoring, Gilgeous-Alexander makes plays for his teammates. He assists them when he gets double-teamed, creates space by dribbling into the lane, taking a few players with him, and automatically makes space for his teammates.
Gilgeous-Alexander put that valuable footwork prowess on full display at 5:45 when he got fouled by Jamal Murray after taking a step-back three. Yet, he missed the free throw to make it a four-point play.
One of SGA’s underrated skill sets is rebounding. He grabbed boards with his lanky frame and fetched 10 rebounds tonight to help the team grab some boards compared to the Nuggets’ 72 rebounds.
Likewise, Gilgeous-Alexander had another highlight play at minute 4:33, when he drained a step-back three with two players closing him down. He displayed his full skills by shooting mid-range shots, fancy crossovers, and slick dribble moves.
The guard finished the game with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. Although they couldn’t win the game, Gilgeous-Alexander had an effective night. However, to knock down effective shots, he must improve his shooting FG% in the next game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Nuggets: Head-to-Head Career Stats
In today’s game, where scoring buckets come mostly beyond the arc, Gilgeous-Alexander remains a throwback to the current players. He attacks the rim, uses his impeccable footwork to create space, and shoots the basketball with incredible poise. It’s pure basketball creativity in how he draws fouls, and he impresses with almost all teams.
He’s played 24 games against the Nuggets and averages 22.0 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his massive output in numbers. While most fans argue he’s just a free-throw merchant, it takes skill to score a free throw, and he does it well, boasting 89.4% against the Nuggets.
Likewise, on March 9, 2025, one of his impressive games against the Nuggets came recently. Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points, had eight rebounds, and five assists for his teammates. One of his underrated abilities remains in defense, and he swatted the ball away three times in the game.
SGA remains a generational talent and could dominate the league for years. Well, he does it even now.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s last 10 games vs the Nuggets
- Jan 22, 2023 – 34 pts, 5 rebs, 5 asts
- Oct 29, 2023 – 7 pts, 4 rebs, 7 asts
- Dec 16, 2023 – 25 pts, 6 rebs, 8 asts
- Dec 29, 2023 – 40 pts, 4 rebs, 3 asts
- Jan 31, 2024 – 34 pts, 7 rebs, 5 asts
- Oct 24, 2024 – 28 pts, 7 rebs, 8 asts
- Nov 06, 2024 – 28 pts, 2 rebs, 6 asts
- Mar 09, 2025 – 40 pts, 8 rebs, 5 asts
- Mar 10, 2025 – 25 pts, 3 rebs, 7 asts
- May 05, 2025 – 33 pts, 10 rebs, 8 asts
