When Shai's unavailable, who steps up? Discover the Thunder's clutch candidates, from Jalen Williams to intriguing newcomers.
When the game slows down in the final minutes, every team wants the ball in its best player’s hands. For the Oklahoma City Thunder, that player is clearly Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Defenses know it too. Late in games, opponents often do everything they can to keep the ball away from him, sending extra defenders or forcing someone else to beat them.
We saw that again in Oklahoma City’s recent win over the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors attempted to sell out defensively to prevent Gilgeous-Alexander from getting a clean look in not only the closing minutes of the game, but they tried to keep him from getting the ball from the opening tip.
It did not matter throughout the game and it didn’t matter when the Thunder needed him most because he still created space and knocked down a step-back three that effectively sealed the game. But that defensive strategy raises an interesting question: if a team actually succeeds in forcing the ball out of Gilgeous-Alexander’s hands, who should the Thunder trust to go one-on-one and take the clutch shot?
If everyone is healthy, the most natural option is Jalen Williams. Williams has already shown he can create his own shot late in the clock and against set defenses. His strength, balance, and ability to attack off the dribble allow him to get to his spots whether that is driving to the rim or pulling up from midrange.
He also has the confidence and composure that coaches want from a secondary closer. Among the players on the roster, he is the clearest alternative when Gilgeous-Alexander is pressured.
Another intriguing option is Ajay Mitchell. Mitchell has demonstrated an advanced feel for the game and an ability to stay under control in difficult situations. His ball handling and creativity allow him to break down defenders and manufacture a good look late in possessions. While he may not yet have the same reputation as some of the team’s established scorers, his comfort operating with the ball in isolation situations makes him a viable late game option.
Jared McCain also deserves a mention. He has only been with the team for about a month but McCain’s scoring instincts and shooting ability give him a chance to create separation quickly. He has shown throughout the season that he does not force himself into the offense, instead allowing the game to come to him.
But when a shot is needed late, his ability to pull up from deep or use a quick move to get a clean look could make him a dangerous option if defenses overcommit elsewhere.
After those three, the Thunder have several situational candidates. Chet Holmgren could be trusted in a mismatch scenario. If he is isolated against a slower defender, his ball skills and length give him the ability to create a quality shot near the basket or from the perimeter. It may not always be a traditional isolation play, but the potential is there.
Guards like Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins, and Cason Wallace also provide secondary possibilities. Joe’s quick release makes him a threat if he can create even a sliver of space. Wiggins has shown flashes of attacking closeouts and finishing through contact. Wallace, meanwhile, has the handle and composure to operate in late clock situations.
Ultimately, the Thunder still want the ball in Gilgeous-Alexander’s hands when the game is on the line. But if a defense truly manages to take that option away, Oklahoma City has a growing list of players capable of stepping into the moment and delivering a clutch shot.