Oklahoma City is no longer playing with house money, as this has turned into a season with serious expectations.

Oklahoma City Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, far less talented and perhaps similarly imaginative, can only dream of the feelings that come with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s powers.  The temptations of the conscience of one of Earth’s greatest scorers.

Because of that, Gilgeous-Alexander isn't afforded the chance to deliciously stat-pad. He's averaging just 34 minutes in 41 games this season. He's sat out 10 fourth quarters. While his stats are still MVP-worthy, the extra playing time could've boosted his 31.5-point average a little higher to chase the scoring title.