Spurs’ SGA assignment just got harder as he adds catch-and-shoot reps off the ball

The San Antonio Spurs' rivalry with the Oklahoma City Thunder just got even more intriguing. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is bringing a new offensive weapon to the fray: a willingness to embrace some off-ball duties and make shots off the catch. He's been showing it off in the preseason. So staying attentive to his movement when he doesn't have the rock will be a new challenge for the Spurs' defense.

This team did have its way with the reigning two-time MVP during the 2025-26 campaign, besting the Thunder in their regular-season series and in a tight, seven-game West Finals bout. They did an awesome job slowing Gilgeous-Alexander down during that playoff meeting, holding him to 25.9 points on 40.9% shooting and 28.6% from distance.

But now, SGA's open to making plays off the ball, and that will be easier for him with more shot creators by his side. Now, the Spurs have two jobs: contain him one-on-one and keep track of his movement when the rock isn't in his hands.

The Spurs must stay connected to SGA at all times

There's a lot that makes SGA special. Obviously, he's an otherworldly isolation scorer with a knack for getting defenders off balance to free himself up for jumpers or draw fouls. But one of the most special parts of his offense is how he utilizes his body.

Don't let the pretty crossovers and mid-range game fool you; the man can play a physical game of basketball. He's a big, strong guard who knows how to absorb and play through contact. This makes him dangerous without the ball, as he can fight through denials or set screens for others and slip through the cracks for open shots.

So he's not just going to be stationary, waiting for catch-and-shoot looks. The Thunder will try to get him moving while someone else handles the ball and facilitates, so Mitch Johnson's squad must stay connected and communicative to keep him from getting open.

This may sound like a simple task for the Spurs as they were elite defensively last season, but keeping teams off the three-point line wasn't one of their strong suits. They ranked 17th in opponents' three-point attempts, so they still have some things to perfect. Improving in this area will help them continue their streak of success against the two-time MVP.

The Spurs are facing a different Thunder team this season

I am not one to add an asterisk next to anything. The Spurs had their way against the Thunder last season, simple as that. But it is worth pointing out that Jalen Williams was unhealthy for a good chunk of those matchups.

This doesn't make their dominance over the Thunder any less impressive. But it should keep San Antonio on their toes when the teams collide this season. Williams is a reliable ball-handler and secondary playmaker who will help SGA thrive as a catch-and-shoot threat.

Now, the Spurs have to focus on disrupting J-Dub's passing lanes and keeping him out of the paint to stave off penetrate-and-kick opportunities. This dynamic puts even more pressure on their defenders.

Luckily, this team is equipped to step up to the challenge. Opening night will give us a look at how they'll respond to this new-look Thunder squad and provide them with a blueprint for how to win their next few regular-season meetings.

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