Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's absence is what Thunder desperately needed

Jan 27, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) smiles during a time out against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams-Imagn ImagesIt's officially been a week since Shai Gilgeous-Alexander played his last game for the OKC Thunder before being shelved with an abdominal injury.

Since then, Mark Daigneault's squad has gone 1-2, including a fourth loss to the rival Spurs.

Their recent record may not be ideal, but those who have looked beyond the box score have seen this team take immense strides forward.

Before SGA's injury, the Thunder had begun to struggle…