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Thunder's Gilgeous-Alexander Putting Together Historic Clutch Season
OKC star leads league in clutch scoring average and ranks among all-time greats in clutch impact metrics.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:19am
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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is having a historically clutch season, leading the NBA in scoring average during clutch situations and ranking among the all-time greats in advanced clutch impact metrics. Despite playing fewer clutch minutes than past record-holders, Gilgeous-Alexander's efficiency and game-winning plays have him in the conversation for the most clutch season ever.
Why it matters
Gilgeous-Alexander's clutch heroics have been a major factor in the Thunder's success this season, as they sit atop the Western Conference standings. His ability to take over games in high-pressure moments sets him apart from his MVP peers and could be a deciding factor in the award race.
The details
In clutch situations this season, defined as games within 5 points in the final 5 minutes of regulation or overtime, Gilgeous-Alexander is shooting 51.5% from the field and leading the Thunder to a 20-7 record. He's averaging a league-high 6.48 clutch points per game, surpassing the marks set by Russell Westbrook in 2016-17 and James Harden in 2018-19. Advanced metrics also rank Gilgeous-Alexander's 2025-26 campaign as the third-most clutch season ever, trailing only Westbrook and LeBron James.
- Gilgeous-Alexander hit the potential game-winning shot against the Pistons on April 1, 2026 before it was called off due to a foul.
- Since March 17, 2026, Gilgeous-Alexander has not missed a shot in the fourth quarter or overtime.
The players
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
The 27-year-old Oklahoma City Thunder guard and reigning NBA MVP, known for his clutch scoring and game-winning plays.
Russell Westbrook
The former Thunder star who previously held the record for highest clutch scoring average in a season.
James Harden
The former Rockets star who previously ranked third in clutch scoring average in a season.
What’s next
Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder will look to continue their clutch dominance as they push for the top seed in the Western Conference playoffs.
The takeaway
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's historic clutch performance this season has established him as one of the NBA's most dominant closers, cementing his status as a true superstar and potential MVP favorite.
