As close as they are to glory, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is doing everything he can to keep his focus off the finish line.
The Thunder star — this season’s MVP and scoring leader — is avoiding thoughts of what could be: the championship moment, the weight of the Larry O’Brien Trophy in his hands, or the celebration that could follow.
Oklahoma City is just one win away from clinching the NBA title, with Game 6 set for Thursday night against a Pacers team that may be missing key players. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but Gilgeous-Alexander is trying to treat it like any other game.
“Being on the verge of winning isn’t the same as winning,” he said. “For me, only winning counts. We haven’t accomplished anything yet.”
Strictly speaking, he’s right. But with a championship just 48 minutes away, it’s hard not to think otherwise.
