NBA Notes: Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Rockets, Grizzlies

Thunder

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is making a serious NBA MVP case, and as the season nears its midway point, his play means even more than that to the Thunder.

He entered Tuesday night with 1,192 points, a staggering 161 points more than the next closest player, and his plus-minus of +474 was 142 points better than anyone else in the league.

Not only has he been scoring at an elite level, but he’s done so while playing every game for the West-leading Thunder.

With OKC looking poised for a deep playoff run, Gilgeous-Alexander’s individual brilliance has been one of the key factors in their success. They square off with Cleveland again on Thursday, this time in Oklahoma City.

Rockets

The Rockets are quietly turning heads, and they’ve just secured their third win of the season over the Grizzlies, becoming the only team to beat Memphis three times this year. That victory also extended their current winning streak to four games.

Jalen Green, 22, has been a scoring machine, tying his career high with 42 points in the win and putting up 25-plus in five straight games.

Meanwhile, Amen Thompson showcased his defensive prowess, registering his second five-block game of the season. With a 5-3 record against the top-six teams in the league, the Rockets are solidifying their status as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.

Grizzlies

The Grizzlies have been inconsistent this month, going 2-4 in January, largely due to the absence of Ja Morant, who has missed three of those games due to injury. Despite racking up 97 30-point quarters this season, they’re allowing 121.2 points per game this month, which has led to defensive struggles.

In their latest loss to the Rockets, Memphis blew a 13-point lead with less than 10 minutes left and faltered down the stretch, ultimately losing despite forcing 23 turnovers.

With the team on a four-game road trip, they’ll face a tough challenge in San Antonio, where they’ll take on Victor Wembanyama and the rising Spurs in a couple of important matchups.