OKC Thunder: Grading Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Extension

The Oklahoma City Thunder have signed superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to a maximum contract extension, marking his second extension with the franchise – a rare occurrence in the team's history. This agreement reinforces the mutual trust between the league's scoring champion and the organization.

Gilgeous-Alexander opted for a four-year, $285 million supermax extension now rather than waiting for a potentially larger five-year deal next season. Though slightly below projections due to a 7% salary cap increase (instead of the anticipated 10%), the contract represents the largest annual salary in NBA history while maintaining his expected percentage of the Thunder's cap space.

This extension places Gilgeous-Alexander alongside Russell Westbrook and Nick Collison as multi-extension Thunder players, securing him through the 2030-31 season. His tenure will include the opening of the team's first new arena, positioning him as a franchise icon.

Since arriving via trade in 2019, Gilgeous-Alexander's development has been central to Oklahoma City's strategy, culminating in the franchise's first championship. His continuous improvement – including a significant playmaking leap during his MVP-winning 2024-25 campaign – remains pivotal to the team's success.

With the Thunder building a roster around the 27-year-old as he enters his prime, this extension represents an immediate and unanimous decision for both parties. The partnership is viewed as an exceptional move, earning an A+ grade for securing the cornerstone of Oklahoma City's championship future.