LA Clippers rookie Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been taking a page from the Golden State Warriors during this first-round series, learning from the backcourt of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson:
“Those are my covers, I'm studying them a lot this series. I definitely learned a few things, but they’re obviously really good players and anyone can learn from them,” said Gilgeous-Alexander. “It’s a challenge, but it’s the NBA. Best in the world and it's playoff time, so that's what's expected.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Steph Curry, Klay Thompson- “Been studying them a lot this series. I definitely learned a few things, but they’re obviously really good players & anyone can learn from them… It’s a challenge, but it’s the NBA. Best in the world.” #Clippers #Warriors pic.twitter.com/4M8PnVE0iJ
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) April 23, 2019
Gilgeous-Alexander got off to a rousing start in Game 1, scoring 18 points for the Clippers, but simmered down over the next two games, scoring four and seven points, respectively.
His big break came in Game 4, as he recorded a career-high 25 points against the defending champs, doing most of his damage by going toe-to-toe with Thompson, who caught fire in the opening period after being largely dormant the first three games.
The Clippers have been encouraged by the quick development of the Kentucky product, who has shown the ability to shoot with confidence while making the most of his length at a spry 6-foot-6, all while learning the point guard position, which often poses a problem for most young guards.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander might not be the perennial sniper Curry and Thompson have been throughout their careers, but the rookie point man shot a respectable 36.7% from deep this season in limited attempts, and is connecting at a strong 40% this series, giving his team a fighting chance against a juggernaut.
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