Shai Gilgeous-Alexander cleared to face Nuggets Friday
shai-gilgeous-alexander-cleared-to-face-nuggets-friday
OKLAHOMA CITY — Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to play Friday night against the Denver Nuggets after being removed from the injury report.
The two-time MVP missed the last nine games, and 11 overall, with an abdominal strain suffered on Feb. 3 against Orlando. NBA rules limit players to 17 absences to remain eligible for postseason awards; Friday’s game will keep the 25-year-old well within that threshold.
Before the injury, Gilgeous-Alexander was averaging 31.8 points, 6.4 assists and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 55.4 percent from the field and nearly 39 percent from three. His 67.0 true shooting percentage and assist rate are career highs, and his turnover rate is at a career low.
Oklahoma City went 5-4 during his latest absence despite additional injuries to Ajay Mitchell and Jalen Williams. The Thunder enter Friday at 45-15, holding a two-game lead over San Antonio for the top seed in the Western Conference.
Source: Hoops Wire
