The Oklahoma City Thunder, defending NBA champions, have hit a rough patch this season due to injuries, most notably the absence of their MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Since missing several games, concerns have grown about the team’s position in the Western Conference playoff race, highlighting the significant Shai Gilgeous-Alexander injury impact on their performance.
Although the Thunder have maintained their standing near the top in the Western Conference, sports commentator Stephen A. Smith cautioned on ESPN’s First Take that the team may struggle to remain a top-eight contender without Gilgeous-Alexander back on the floor. The discussion included observations on the San Antonio Spurs’ recent surge under Victor Wembanyama, following their win over the Detroit Pistons.
Stephen A. Smith Questions Thunder’s Playoff Viability Without Shai
Smith expressed serious doubts regarding Oklahoma City’s competitiveness in the playoffs if Shai Gilgeous-Alexander does not return soon. He stated,
“Without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, I don’t have Oklahoma City [Thunder] as a top 8 team,”
reflecting the belief that Shai is indispensable to the team’s success.
Despite these concerns, the Thunder have posted a 6-3 record when Shai has been sidelined, including wins over strong postseason hopefuls such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Still, prior to the All-Star break, Oklahoma City suffered consecutive losses to the Spurs and Houston Rockets without him.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Impressive Season Highlights His Importance
This season, Gilgeous-Alexander is delivering MVP-caliber numbers, averaging 31.8 points and 6.4 assists per game while shooting an efficient 55% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc. His ability to provide crucial baskets has anchored the Thunder’s offense, and his absence has forced the team to lean heavily on their strong defense, team effort, and three-point shooting to stay competitive.
Upcoming Games Test the Thunder’s Resilience
Oklahoma City is entering a crucial stretch, beginning with a game against the playoff-contending Toronto Raptors on the first night of a back-to-back. This will be followed by a nationally televised matchup against the Detroit Pistons, who currently lead the Eastern Conference. These games will serve as a clear test of how well the Thunder can compete without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and will likely influence their trajectory in the playoff race.
"Without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, I don't have Oklahoma City [Thunder] as a top 8 team."
– Stephen A. Smith 😮
(via @FirstTake)pic.twitter.com/Uju16tlP5Q
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 24, 2026
