Nostalgia pitched up his tone, with Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the forefront of his mind.  “I grew up in an era where the best player on the best team wins MVP every time,” the Pacers guard said following a 132-111 Thunder win.

Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander credits Lu Dort’s defense for why his team defends at such a high level. Gilgeous-Alexander says Dort is the motor on that end of the floor.

After Daigneault received his flowers last season when he won Coach of the Year, it's Gilgeous-Alexander's turn under the national spotlight. He's likely on his way to an MVP award as his historic 30-point campaign paired with the Thunder's historic dominance is the perfect marriage to win the prestigious trophy.