The new face of the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but the third-year guard will carry lessons he learned from the previous leader of the team.
In Gilgeous-Alexander’s first press conference during NBA training camp Friday, he was asked about his reaction to the Chris Paul trade this offseason.
“Obviously there’s been talks about Chris being on the market, even when we started last year,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I kind of knew the day would eventually come when I don’t play with Chris anymore, and it just happened sooner rather than later.”
As the Thunder won games last season, then continued to win more and more, the urgency to trade Paul and his contract lessened. Oklahoma City was more than happy to ride the roster it had and make the playoffs.
During that run, the 15-year veteran provided help and insight to the emerging young guard.
“He was a great help to me in my second year,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I got a brother for life … I’m thankful for being his teammate.”
Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 19 points per game. It was his first season as a starter, and while he showed flashes of smart and strong play as a rookie with the Los Angeles Clippers, last season gave Gilgeous-Alexander the opportunity to break out.
He did so, getting playoff experience and learning from one of the best point guards to ever play in Paul.
Now, Gilgeous-Alexander will put those lessons to the test as the primary playmaker for the first time in his career.
“He’s taught me so many things that I’ll definitely take forward the rest of my career,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
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