Gilgeous-Alexander Targets Bounce-Back After Thunder’s Double-OT Loss to Spurs
gilgeous-alexander-aims-bounce-back-after-double-ot-loss
Oklahoma City guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander admitted he “has to be better” after the Thunder fell to San Antonio 121-118 in double overtime to open the Western Conference Finals. The two-time MVP finished Game 1 with 24 points and 12 assists across 51 minutes but shot 7-for-23 and turned the ball over four times.
San Antonio repeatedly trapped Gilgeous-Alexander and used Victor Wembanyama as a roving rim protector, a strategy that funneled shots to other Thunder players. “Sometimes you’re your best version, sometimes you’re not,” the All-NBA guard said. “You’ve got to roll with the punches, don’t get discouraged and stay true to who you are.”
Caruso capitalizes on extra space
The Spurs’ attention on Gilgeous-Alexander opened the floor for Alex Caruso, who scored a career-playoff-high 31 points. “Winning is of the utmost importance and it carries a lot more weight in the playoffs,” Caruso told The Athletic. “You’re just trying to make whatever the play is and trying to win the game.”
Holmgren continues to struggle against San Antonio
Chet Holmgren’s difficulties versus the Spurs persisted. The rookie center averaged 10.0 points on 37 percent shooting in five meetings during the season and managed eight points in the series opener, hitting both of his field goals from beyond the arc. Head coach Mark Daigneault said greater ball movement is the key to involving Holmgren: “If we play better collectively, he’ll be more involved and we’ll be able to get more cracks offensively.”
Mitchell quiet offensively but fills box score
Second-round pick Ajay Mitchell, who posted 22.5 points per game against the Lakers in the previous round, attempted only five shots and scored four points Monday. The rookie guard added five assists, four rebounds and two steals. “There was part of me that truly believed I was a first-round pick,” Mitchell told Andscape. “I definitely wanted to show people I was worth a first-round pick. I am just really happy to be a part of this organization with an opportunity to get better.”
Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is scheduled for Wednesday night in San Antonio.
Source: Hoops Rumors
