The month of December brought spectacular performances from two NBA stars who led their teams to remarkable records: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Karl-Anthony Towns of the New York Knicks. Both players showcased elite skills and leadership, solidifying their places among the league’s top talents. Let’s dive into their incredible achievements.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander,won the Western Conference player of the Month. Leading the Thunder to a stunning 12-1 record, he averaged an NBA-best 33.3 points per game on an efficient 56.3% shooting from the field. But SGA didn’t stop there. His all-around game was on full display, as he contributed 5.8 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 2.5 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game.
What’s most impressive is how Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring came with efficiency and consistency, often taking over games in clutch moments. His ability to attack the rim, draw fouls, and knock down mid-range jumpers has made him one of the league’s most difficult players to defend. Additionally, his defensive contributions—evident in his 2.5 steals and 1.2 blocks per game—proved critical in turning the Thunder into a formidable defensive unit.
Karl-Anthony Towns also delivered a stellar December, helping the Knicks achieve a 12-2 record. The big man averaged 23.2 points, 14.6 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 56.6% from the field and an impressive 39.9% from three-point range.
Towns’ offensive versatility was on full display, as he dominated in the paint while stretching defenses with his outside shooting. His rebounding numbers were particularly noteworthy, as he consistently controlled the boards, creating second-chance opportunities for the Knicks and limiting those for opponents. Defensively, his presence in the paint deterred drives and provided a crucial backbone for the team’s success.