Following a Game 1 collapse to the Denver Nuggets, questions swirled around the Oklahoma City Thunder, and more specifically its ball-centric superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Were the Thunder worthy of their “contender” moniker?

The Oklahoma City Thunder came up short in Game 3, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander did not meet expectations. He also left the court with a surprising reaction, which drew criticism from fans. Later, he addressed the backlash by revealing the real reason behind his response.

DENVER — Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman commended his players for their collective defense on Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After Nikola Jokic's supporting cast led the Nuggets to a Game 3 victory against the Thunder, Adelman highlighted Denver's approach to limiting Gilgeous-Alexander.