Lou Williams' Insight: The Clippers' Unforeseen Star in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
A Prescient Gaze: Recognizing Greatness Before It Shines
Williams' Early Assessment of Gilgeous-Alexander's Talent
Lou Williams, a celebrated NBA Sixth Man of the Year, vividly recalls sensing the immense talent within rookie guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from the very beginning of his career with the Los Angeles Clippers. Williams articulated his conviction that the Clippers were parting with a future basketball icon when Gilgeous-Alexander was involved in the pivotal trade for Paul George. He noted Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional qualities, such as coachability, work ethic, and intelligence, which set him apart even as a newcomer to the league.
The Blockbuster Trade and Williams' Instant Reaction
The trade that sent Gilgeous-Alexander to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Paul George was a significant moment in NBA history. Williams recounted that upon learning of the deal, his immediate concern was whether Gilgeous-Alexander was part of the package. This reaction underscored the profound belief Williams held in the young guard's potential, recognizing him as a foundational piece for any team's future success.
Gilgeous-Alexander's Rookie Season and Promising Start
Drafted 11th overall by the Clippers in 2018, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander quickly established himself as a key player. He secured a starting position, playing in all 82 games and starting 73 of them. His rookie statistics, averaging 10.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds with an impressive 47.6% field goal percentage, demonstrated his immediate impact and contributed to the Clippers' playoff berth. His performance garnered him a sixth-place finish in the Rookie of the Year voting, hinting at the bright future ahead.
The Path to Stardom in Oklahoma City
Following the trade, while the Clippers aimed for championship contention by pairing George with Kawhi Leonard, Gilgeous-Alexander embarked on a remarkable journey of development with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He consistently elevated his game, significantly increasing his scoring average to 19.0 points in his first season with the Thunder. Over the subsequent seasons, he blossomed into one of the NBA's premier guards, achieving an average of at least 30 points per game in three of the last four seasons.
Multiple MVP Honors and Elite Status
Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional performance led to a fifth-place finish in MVP voting in 2022-23, followed by an even more impressive second-place finish in 2023-24. His ascent culminated in consecutive MVP awards, with him averaging an NBA-best 32.7 points per game on 51.9% shooting in 2024-25, and then 31.1 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds on a career-high 55.3% shooting in 2025-26. These achievements solidified his status as a two-time MVP and a consistent First Team All-NBA selection.
A Career Defined by Growth and Validation
Across his eight NBA seasons, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander boasts career averages of 25.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds, maintaining a 50.8% field goal percentage. His transformation from a promising rookie into the undeniable cornerstone of the Thunder franchise stands as a powerful testament to the foresight Lou Williams displayed. Williams' early assessment of Gilgeous-Alexander's potential has been thoroughly validated by the guard's consistent excellence and leadership in the league.