It did not take long for Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to be one of the best players in the NBA. Over the past two seasons, he has been selected to two All-Star games, made two All-NBA first teams, and was top-five in MVP voting back-to-back seasons. And he is only getting better.
Of the roughly 25 Canadian NBA players in the league right now, Shai is by far the best player to represent the country. Averaging 30 points, six assists, and six rebounds last season, no one is really close. However, when it comes to all-time Canadians, Steve Nash may have Shai beat. But it might not take long until the two-time MVP is dethroned by the Thunder guard.
In a study conducted by 'HoopsHype', they ranked the 78 greatest international players ever, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander placed 34th on the list.
"An unquestioned talent, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has reached a level many players ranked above him could never touch," said HoopsHype, "His creativity and craftiness as a scorer and playmaker make him special, evidenced by back-to-back 1st Team All-NBA selections. He also excels defensively. When all is said and done, Shai should have more accolades and rank much higher on this list".
While some people may think that is high for someone who doesn't have a championship or notable award, his competition placed ahead of him says otherwise.
With players like Rudy Gobert at 14, Karl Anthony-Towns at 19, Rolando Blackman at 23, Nikola Vucevic at 24, and Ben Simmons at 31, it is not surprising why SGA is so high on the historical list. And it will only be a matter of time until he places even higher.
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