Shai Gilgeous-Alexander makes MVP statement in Thunder's big win

The NBA's leading scorer had a rough game shooting from the outside but dominated everywhere else. While Gilgeous-Alexander was 2-of-11 on three-pointers, he shot 15-of-32 on two-pointers and made all eight of his free throws, while turning the ball over only once. Playing bigger than his size, he grabbed eight rebounds and blocked three shots.

SGA finished second to Denver's Nikola Jokic in last year's MVP voting, but he outplayed the Nuggets big man Sunday. Jokic had 24 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists, one assist shy of his third triple-double versus the Thunder this season. Still, Jokic struggled from outside (2-of-10 on threes) and seemed not to look for his shot after hurting his elbow early.

Still, the Joker didn't look great on defense, particularly against the drives from SGA.

Did this game determine the MVP winner? No, but it's a mark in Gilgeous-Alexander's favor. Jokic doesn't have to wait long to make his rebuttal argument as these two teams play again Monday night in Oklahoma City.