OKC Thunder Trio Makes Statement Against Knicks

If it wasn't already apparent, the Oklahoma City Thunder have one of the newest dominant trios in the NBA. 

In a nine-point win over the New York Knicks, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren combined for 94 of the Thunder's 129 points. It was the trio's show the entire night, helping their team gain its 20th victory of the season on a back to back after a win over the No. 1 seeded Minnesota Timberwolves. 

Gilgeous-Alexander dropped a statline of 36 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks on 13-of-23 shooting, becoming the third player to score at least 25 points and two steals after Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson. He's putting together another strong MVP case especially in the last couple weeks, all while leading Oklahoma City to the third seed in the West.

Williams also scored a career-high 36 points on an incredibly efficient 13-of-17 shooting night, including a 5-of-5 clip from 3-point range. In the last three games, the 22-year-old has combined for 85 points on 68% shooting, stepping into a high volume scoring role on the Thunder. He has a legitimate case to be an All-Star this season, especially if he can continue to increase his production to 20 point per game territory. 

Holmgren followed behind by adding 22 points, five rebounds and four blocks on 9-of-14 shooting. Not only is he in top contention for the Rookie of the Year award, but is making a case for an All-Star and Defensive First Team selection as well. The 21-year-old has been commanding the defense in the paint, while scoring from all areas on the court. 

Not only did the trio score high numbers, but combined for only one turnover on the night. The Thunder itself only had four turnovers the entire night, tying the lowest-amount in the league this season. 

The NBA has plenty of dominant trios across the board, but Oklahoma City's has quickly cemented itself as one of the best. At just 25, 22 and 21, the three young stars are contending far sooner than most players have the ability to. Even though they lack the experience compared to the likes of the Milwuakee Bucks and Denver Nuggets, their skill and confidence has allowed them to compete with the best.

The league has taken notice of not only the trio, but Oklahoma City as a complete unit. The sky is only the limit, and the new era of Thunder basketball will be pioneered by Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams and Holmgren. 

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