Shai Believes in the Thunder: “We’re Better Than Last Year”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drops 30 on the Pelicans and the MVP isn’t worried about missing key teammates
The Oklahoma City Thunder keep rolling with a perfect record at 7-0 – another night, another dominant win – this time a 137-106 blowout over the New Orleans Pelicans. Even without Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder looked deep, disciplined, and dangerous, once again led by their star, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
SGA was in full control: 30 points on 8-for-14 shooting, 7 assists, and his trademark two-way impact. It’s already the third time this season he’s scored at least 30 without even playing the fourth quarter – the kind of efficiency that defines an MVP-caliber start.
It feels like we’re a better team. We’ve had a year to grow, honestly. The roster hasn’t changed much, aside from a few rookies. But since last season, we’ve had time to really get to know each other on and off the court, and that’s given us an edge this year.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Around him, it was a full-team effort. Aaron Wiggins played the role of quiet contributor with 15 points and three threes, while Cason Wallace continues to earn more trust from coach Mark Daigneault, finishing with 13 points and five steals.
Because we’ve improved – from 1 through 15 in the locker room – we can adapt, find solutions on the fly, and still get good results.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Compared to the start of last season, the vibes are completely different. OKC looks like a team that knows exactly who it is – and isn’t showing any signs of a “championship hangover”. The group has matured, the system flows naturally, and the identity is crystal clear.
Even with key players sidelined, Daigneault continues to get consistent production from everyone he puts on the floor. This isn’t just “next man up” talk – it’s real plug-and-play basketball, where rhythm and execution don’t drop no matter who’s on the court.
Next up is a four-game road trip starting with the Clippers, and a chance to push the record to 8–0, potentially marking the best start in franchise history. For anyone who thought last year’s breakout might have been a fluke, the Thunder’s answer so far has been loud and unmistakable.