The Los Angeles Lakers guard is unhappy with how Thunder sensation Shai Gilgeous-Alexander appears to “get away” with this particular maneuver.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander indeed had an exceptional 2023-24 season, cementing his status as one of the NBA’s elite guards. His scoring prowess was on full display, consistently putting up over 30 points per game, a feat he achieved for the second consecutive season. Defensively, he was just as impressive, leading the league with 2.0 steals per game and achieving a career-best defensive box plus-minus of +2.3. These statistics highlight his well-rounded game and his ability to impact both ends of the floor.
D’Angelo Russell’s comments regarding officiating suggest that some may believe Gilgeous-Alexander benefited from favorable calls. However, this doesn’t detract from his overall performance and skill. Players often receive more favorable calls as they establish themselves as stars, but Gilgeous-Alexander’s excellence goes beyond officiating. His ability to consistently score and defend at a high level is a testament to his talent and hard work.
D’Angelo Russell calls out Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
On a recent episode of Run Your Race, Russell interjected by saying “They be letting him get away with this sh*t,” followed by him extending his arm in an apparent attempt to impersonate the uncalled move.
Russell’s suggested action is SGA’s usage of his elbows in a swinging motion while driving the lane, which the league has officially labeled a foul punishable by a turnover.
According to the NBA’s penalties and violations rulebook, a player may not engage in excessive and/or violent swinging of the elbows in swinging motion (no contact) when a defensive player is nearby and the offensive player has the ball.
Gilgeous-Alexander, in Russell’s opinion, is a frequent user of such a maneuver, and he receives little punishment from referees for it.
SGA with the kiss off the glass@okcthunder | #ThunderUp | @BallySports pic.twitter.com/hDml55mv0K
— Bally Sports Oklahoma (@BallySportsOK) April 22, 2024
Indeed, the conversation between D’Angelo Russell and Theo Pinson highlights a common aspect of the NBA, where star players often receive a certain level of leniency from referees. Gilgeous-Alexander, like many top players, may occasionally benefit from this in terms of calls on specific moves, such as using his elbow or arm extension during drives to the basket.
However, these instances do not overshadow his remarkable abilities and contributions. Being able to perform at such a high level consistently is a testament to his skill, work ethic, and basketball IQ. His scoring, defensive prowess, and overall impact on the game have been pivotal for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s success. While officiating nuances are part of the game, they don’t diminish the significant influence Gilgeous-Alexander has on the court. His talent and performance remain the primary reasons for his and his team’s achievements.
