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NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a stunning 40-point performance, nearly doubling the combined scores of Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a narrow two-point win in Game 4 on Monday night. His remarkable scoring spree included converting 12 out of 14 free throws, a skill that has drawn mocking chants from Timberwolves fans.
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When questioned post-game about the ongoing taunts and his reputation as a frequent visitor to the free-throw line, Gilgeous-Alexander remained unfazed.
“Regarding the label, it doesn’t bother me,” he remarked. “I’ve actually taken more free throws in past seasons than this one. It’s just more noticeable now since we’re getting a lot of attention, and suddenly, it matters to people.”
He views the criticism as unintentional praise.
This perspective is logical because ultimately, he is criticized for effectively using a tactic that significantly benefits his team’s performance. It is not his duty to police the referees’ decisions on whether they are overly lenient when he draws fouls. The term “free throw merchant” should be seen as a compliment, reflecting his strategic importance to the game.
The Thunder are poised to possibly conclude the series and advance to the NBA Finals with a victory on Wednesday night. This presents a new opportunity for a different set of fans to try and influence the game with their chants. They will likely find it a challenging task.
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Mike Johnson is a passionate news writer with a keen interest in current events. With over a decade of experience in journalism, he has a talent for uncovering the stories that matter most. Mike’s insightful articles and in-depth analyses have made him a trusted voice in the industry. He thrives on staying ahead of the news curve, providing readers with timely and relevant information. Whether it’s breaking news, politics, or social issues, Mike’s dedication to the craft ensures that his readers are always well-informed.

