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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) returned to action on Friday after a two-game absence due to an ankle sprain. In his stead, rookie point guard Josh Giddey has stepped in admirably, averaging seventeen points, eight assists, and seven rebounds per game. While neither of the games were Thunder victories–or the one tonight as the Thunder fell at home by two points to the Washington Wizards– Gilgeous-Alexander said he still sees something special in the young Aussie.
SGA on Josh Giddey's passing: "He sees everything and everything is on target."
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) November 27, 2021
Not only has Giddey played well in his rookie season, but he has gone so far as to have the veterans almost expecting it out of him. SGA says the fact that Giddey stepped up while he was injured, was something he saw coming because of the hard work and talent that Giddey possesses. Giddey has also played professionally overseas so he is accustomed to the increased physicality with the larger players.
SGA on Josh Giddey playing so well while he was out: “It didn’t really surprise me.” pic.twitter.com/elyTpfWPOl
— Brandon Rahbar (@BrandonRahbar) November 27, 2021
On the season, Giddey is averaging ten points, six assists, and eight rebounds in roughly 3o minutes a night for the Thunder. When his minutes are increased into the late '30s, this kid could be a walking triple-double. Think more Rajon Rondo than Russell Westbrook kind of triple-doubles. He may not have as many because he isn't the type of athlete that Westbrook is, but when he gets hot as a passer it could be a 20-assist night.
Thunder fans will hope that the Giddey and SGA combo in 2021 can lead to some more wins, as OKC is still sitting at just 6-13 on the season. Up next for the Thunder is a road game on Monday at the Houston Rockets. The good thing for the Thunder about that one is…the Rockets are currently just 2-16.
