Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to put his signature all over this NBA season. The Oklahoma City Thunder star has won the Clutch Player of the Year award, a recognition given to the most decisive players in the biggest moments of games.

And there’s no way around it: this award brings him even closer to the 2025-26 MVP title.

I try to be decisive every night. It’s special to receive this recognition – it means I’m doing the right things on the court

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

When the game is on the line, Shai delivers

In close-game situations, Shai has been playing a different sport compared to everyone else. He led the league in clutch scoring and consistently turned tight games into wins for the Thunder. It’s no coincidence that Oklahoma City finished with a 64-18 record, with him at the center of every key play.

  • 175 clutch points (1st in NBA)
  • 52 clutch field goals
  • 20-7 record for the Thunder in close games
  • +93 plus/minus in clutch minutes

Behind him in the race were two elite names: Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets.

Next step… MVP?

Now the focus shifts there: the MVP award, set to be announced on April 24. Also in the race are Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama, but Shai enters this moment with another accolade in hand and a season that speaks for itself.