The NBA is coming to the end of the 2023-24 season and the OKC Thunder are atop the Western Conference. The New York Knicks tested the Thunder at MSG but the Aussie star, Josh Giddey was huge for the visitors.

Despite MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returning the OKC Thunder were only able to squeak out a one-point win against the New York Knicks, 113-112. The biggest factor on the court was Australian Josh Giddey who collected a triple-dpouble in the contest.

Getting the stats out of the way, in 31 minutes Giddey was able to accumulate 16 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists to go along with two blocks and a steal. The Aussie only had two turnovers and two fouls during his time on the court.

However, what was even more impressive on the scoresheet was that Giddey was plus 11 on the night, which was the best number for any starter on the night. Andrew Wiggins had a plus 13 off the bench but it shows that Giddey controlled the court when he was on the floor.

Why it was improtant to the OKC Thunder that Josh Giddey performed the way that he did.

With the OKC Thunder remaining at the top of the Western Conference, and qualifying for the post-season with the win, they need to make sure that they are more than just a one man band. Gilgeous-Alexander has been huge all season, and will continue to perform at the level which has kept him in the MVP conversation. He only had 19 points in 35 minutes with a plus/minus of -15

Jalen Williams had a solid game while both Lugenz Dort and Chet Holmgren had a struggle game on the offensive end. This meant that the offensive load fell on Giddey and he answered the call. When the Thunder are involved in a seven game series in the playoffs, teams are going to focus on stopping Gilgeous-Alexander. Giddey is the backup playmaker and crucial for the chances of the Thunder advancing.

While it was Gilgeous-Alexander hit the game winner against the New York Knicks, it was Giddey that got the team into the position for this to happen. This is why basketball is a team game and every team needs the players who will keep them in the game for the superstars to win it. The Thunder have many of these types of players with Giddey being a potential superstar.