Shai Gilgeous-Alexander isn't just in the MVP conversation; he's rewriting its history. The Oklahoma City Thunder superstar has propelled his team to the Western Conference's top seed for a second consecutive season, all while cementing himself as one of the most efficient high-volume scorers the game has ever seen.
His latest feat places him in truly legendary company. According to Underdog NBA, Gilgeous-Alexander has set a new NBA record for the highest field goal percentage by a guard averaging over 30 points per game. He finished the regular season averaging 31.1 points on a blistering 55.3% shooting from the field.
This remarkable efficiency surpasses a record held by none other than Michael Jordan, who shot 53.9% during his 1990-91 MVP and championship season. Jordan's name still dominates the all-time list, but Gilgeous-Alexander now holds the top spot, underscoring a scoring prowess that blends relentless volume with surgical shot selection.
Some analysts have questioned if his efficiency is buoyed by drawing fouls on missed shots. However, the data tells a compelling story. Gilgeous-Alexander's average of nine free throw attempts per game aligns closely with Jordan's rates during his own peak scoring years, suggesting Shai's record is built on genuine, sustainable excellence.
For a player whose game is defined by a controlled, methodical pace and an unstoppable mid-range arsenal, this record is more than a statistic—it's a testament to a player operating at an all-time great level. As the playoffs intensify, all eyes will be on SGA to see if this historic regular-season efficiency translates into a deep postseason run for the Thunder.
