Stan Van Gundy claims that SGA doesn’t actually get enough calls

Shai Gilgeous-AlexanderThe ability to get to the free throw line often drew criticism from the former NBA head coach Stan Van Gundy during Oklahoma City The Thunder’s match against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night.

Gilgeous-Alexander is in his eighth career season, seventh with the Thunder. He rose through the ranks to become one of the league’s top stars, earning MVP honors last season.

Gilgeous-Alexander tends to be criticized for his elite ability to draw fouls to make his way to the charity stripe. He has averaged eight or more free throws over the last four seasons, including this ongoing campaign.

Van Gundy talked about the Thunder star’s ability to soak up contact, per reporter Brandon Rabar. Former coach had an intriguing statementbelieving that Gilgeous-Alexander doesn’t come to the line as much as it should.

“I’m not sure he’s getting all the calls he needs to,” Van Gundy said.

As Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder played against the Timberwolves

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ended up getting just five free throws as the Thunder faltered in a 123-111 loss to the Timberwolves.

Oklahoma City got off to a rough start, trailing 34-22 after the first quarter. While they settled down late in the game, they were unable to mount a rally to take control of the momentum and fight back against Minnesota.

Five players scored in double figures for Oklahoma City in the loss, including Gilgeous-Alexander. He finished with 30 points, eight assists, six rebounds and one steal. He shot 12 of 18 from the field, including 1 of 2 from beyond the arc and 5 of 5 from the free throw line. Next is Chet Holmgren with 15 points and five rebounds, Cason Wallace 13 points, Isaiah Hartenstein 11 points and five rebounds, and Aaron Wiggins 10 points and five assists.

Oklahoma City fell to a 38-11 record on the season, but remains in control of first place in the Western Conference standings. They are five games ahead of the San Antonio Spurs and 5.5 games ahead of the Denver Nuggets.

The Thunder will look to bounce back in their next game, staying on the road. They face the Nuggets and tip-off will take place on February 1st at 9:30pm ET.