Strategizing to limit Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the Western Conference Finals, the Minnesota Timberwolves might utilize family ties to get a one-up on the probable MVP winner. After floating around the league his first few years, Nickeil Alexander-Walker has carved out a role on the surprise contender as a bench player.
Gilgeous-Alexander and Alexander-Walker grew up together. The latter even considers the former a brother. While they’ve had separate NBA journeys, their clash with an NBA Finals trip on the line is one of the more underrated storylines in this playoff series.
Expect the Timberwolves to throw multiple defenders at Gilgeous-Alexander. There’s no true SGA stopper in the NBA. It’ll be a group effort if Minnesota hopes to make him earn his inevitable 30 points. Alexander-Walker will be one of the defenders assigned to stop his cousin.
He’s ready for the challenge. Before Game 1 tipped off, Alexander-Walker kept his cards close to his vest. He won’t spill his secrets or tricks to slow down his cousin, who he grew up playing with and against.
“It’s kinda like playing poker. You got to the play the man. Can’t air out my tricks right now. Can’t give up the drop or the strategies. I think it’s just enjoying the opportunity and matchup,” Alexander-Walker said. “I’m going to get the best of him sometimes. He’s going to get the best of me. But not backing down but trying to stop him more than he’s stopping me.”
It’ll be fun to see Gilgeous-Alexander and Alexander-Walker square off. The Thunder will need their MVP finalist to average an efficient 30 points like he did against the Denver Nuggets if they hope to advance to the NBA Finals. Meanwhile, Alexander-Walker could be a prime candidate for a random Minnesota role player who goes off.