The NBA's post-All-Star break action was supposed to be a highlight for Canadian basketball fans, with a thrilling lineup of games on tap. However, the excitement has taken a hit with the news that Oklahoma City Thunder's MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, will miss the upcoming game in Toronto.
This matchup, the only visit by the defending champs this season, was a hot ticket, and his absence is a double blow for fans eager to see the pride of Hamilton in action. Gilgeous-Alexander has been sidelined since February 3rd due to an abdominal strain and will not be reevaluated until next week.
Toronto fans were hoping for a marquee doubleheader, with Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs set to play the following night. While Wembanyama is a rising star, the absence of Gilgeous-Alexander dims the anticipated back-to-back spectacle.
Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout in Toronto, averaging 26.5 points per game in his six appearances since his debut with the Los Angeles Clippers. This season, he's been on fire, averaging 31.8 points per game, trailing only the Lakers' Luka Doncic.
Earlier this year, Toronto managed to stun the Thunder in Oklahoma City, limiting Gilgeous-Alexander to 24 points and no three-pointers, marking a rare consecutive home loss for the champions.
Unfortunately, Gilgeous-Alexander joins a growing list of stars who have missed games in Toronto this season, including the likes of Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Kawhi Leonard, Joel Embiid, and others sidelined for the year, such as Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton. The absence of these marquee names is a disappointment for fans eager to see the league's best in action.