Shai Gilgeous-Alexander makes commanding demand for the OKC Thunder's performances

The Oklahoma City Thunder suffered their 11th loss of the season on Thursday. It was another defeat for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who seem to have their rival's number. 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, OKC's best player, wants his team to be much better. They want to meet a high standard they set for themselves after their championship back in 2025. Gilgeous-Alexander is holding himself and the team accountable.

Gilgeous-Alexander wants more from the Thunder

While the Thunder are still the best team in the league, they have not as good as expected. Multiple losses to the Timberwolves and the San Antonio Spurs have shown that some Western Conference teams have prepared for them.

As the reigning regular season and Finals MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander knows what it takes to be successful. OKC is prepared to keep competing, but they need to be much better against good opponents. 

MORE: Thunder fall from top spot in latest NBA power rankings

Gilgeous-Alexander wants the Thunder to be more aggressive. He wants to be more assertive, so the Thunder won't be chasing teams.

"We have to feel the first punch for sure, especially against teams of that caliber. We got to play to our standard. Be assertive. Be aggressive," Gilgeous-Alexander said after losing to Minnesota.

"When you play against really good teams, they force you to think the game, read and react, and have a plan. I think that's important to be successful, more so than just going out there, playing hard, and playing together."

If the Thunder are chasing all the time, there could be some issues. They want to be ahead, considering they have the top roster in the game. As long as they can continue cementing themselves early on, the players will keep doing so.

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• Chet Holmgren campaigns for teammate to join the Three-Point Shootout at All-Star Weekend
• Kenny Atkinson's praise amplifies Chet Holmgren's Defensive Player of the Year bid
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander commends Chet Holmgren for being a versatile teammate