Steve Nash, Canada’s first NBA Most Valuable Player, marked a significant milestone on the 20th anniversary of his award when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander became the second Canadian to earn this honor. Nash, who has won one more MVP trophy than Gilgeous-Alexander, believes that the young star is on a path to greatly surpass his own achievements. This recognition came as Gilgeous-Alexander was named MVP after leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to success over Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets.
Nash spoke highly of Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance, especially regarding his competition against the runner-up Nikola Jokić, who is widely regarded as one of the game‘s all-time greats. Nash views this as an important indicator of Gilgeous-Alexander’s potential and ceiling in the NBA.
Nash Compares Gilgeous-Alexander to Basketball Legends Jordan and Bryant
While acknowledging the hesitation many have to compare current stars with legends such as Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, Nash confidently argues that Gilgeous-Alexander is reaching those heights. At just 26 years old, the Thunder’s leader is demonstrating skills and leadership that align with the greats of the game.
I think there’s a reluctance, out of respect and admiration, to say names like Jordan and Kobe or whoever, but he does the same thing they do,
Nash said.
If you look at the numbers and you break it down, there’s a lot of things he does that are greater than everyone that’s even close to those type of players. So he’s ascending towards that category.
Impact on Oklahoma City Thunder’s Record-Breaking Season
Gilgeous-Alexander played a pivotal role in the Thunder setting a new league record with an average winning margin of 12.9 points per game. Leading the NBA scoring charts with an average of 32.7 points per game and a remarkable 63.7% true shooting percentage, his contributions remain unmatched in this historic season.
Nash emphasizes that Gilgeous-Alexander’s value extends beyond statistics to his leadership, character, and the ability to elevate his team’s performance on a consistent basis.
If you win the championship this year, that also helps the argument. But I’m not so much into arguments. I’m just into quality of play and quality of player, human being, leader, winner, and he’s ascending at a historic rate here. So I mean, there’s no limit, really. I just love him to death, and just to see him recognized is phenomenal.
Outlook for the Playoffs and Gilgeous-Alexander’s Future
Though Nash does not focus solely on championship titles, Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder are making strong strides toward success. Currently, the team holds a 2-0 lead against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals and need only three more victories to reach the NBA Finals.
This moment signals a turning point in Gilgeous-Alexander’s career, one where his rising stature could place him alongside basketball’s all-time greats, reshaping the future of the sport in Canada and across the league.