Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dominates Knicks in crunch time and strengthens his MVP race
Mar 29, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives around New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the New York Knicks 111-100 on Sunday, in a game where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again demonstrated why he’s among the favorites for the MVP title. With this victory, the Thunder solidify their first place in the West with a 59-16 record, while the Knicks remain third in the East at 48-27.
A difficult start but a strong finish
The game started poorly for Gilgeous-Alexander, who shot a modest 2/7 early on. The Knicks, who had just seen their seven-game winning streak end against the Hornets, benefited from the return of Miles McBride to stay competitive. However, this return was short-lived as McBride injured himself again in the third quarter after just ten minutes of play.
At halftime, the teams were separated by just one point (53-52) thanks notably to Jalen Brunson, who scored 32 points on 13/21 shooting. The Knicks’ point guard hit a deep shot before finding Josh Hart beyond the arc to keep his team in the game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s reaction to his dagger 3-pointer to lift OKC over the Knicks 🤣🔥
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 30, 2026
Gilgeous-Alexander takes control
Despite his offensive struggles for most of the game (6/16 shooting with five minutes remaining), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander chose the perfect moment to elevate his play. In crunch time, with the Knicks back within one possession, the MVP candidate caught fire with seven consecutive points that sealed the outcome of the game.
« He made a mid-range shot and nailed a three-pointer before setting up Chet Holmgren, » perfectly summarizing his surge. Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 30 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists, confirming his status as an MVP favorite with averages of 31.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.6 assists this season.
The Thunder dominated at the free-throw line (38 attempts versus 17 for New York) and in transition (15-4), decisive factors in this victory that keeps Oklahoma City atop the Western Conference ahead of San Antonio Spurs (56-18). For the Knicks, this loss distances them from second place in the East, now held by the Celtics (50-24).
Comments (0)