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Thunder's Gilgeous-Alexander and Mavericks' Doncic Set for Scintillating Showdown

As the NBA playoffs heat up, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks are set to clash in a game that promises fireworks, thanks to the exceptional form of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from the Thunder and Luka Doncic from the Mavericks. Both teams have shown resilience and skill leading up to this point, but it's the standout performances from these players that have fans on the edge of their seats.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 14: Gordon Hayward #33 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks  on April 14, 2024 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the dynamic guard for Oklahoma City Thunder, has been nothing short of spectacular in recent games. In his last three outings, he averaged an impressive 31.7 points per game, alongside 6.3 assists and 8 rebounds. Notably, his performance against Dallas Mavericks on May 16th was a masterclass, scoring 30 points with an efficiency rating of 33. His ability to influence both ends of the court was evident as he also contributed defensively with steals and blocks across these games.


On the other side, Luka Doncic has been equally phenomenal for the Dallas Mavericks. Averaging 23.7 points across his last three appearances along with a remarkable 8.7 assists and 12.3 rebounds per game showcases his all-around impact on the game. His triple-double performance on May 16th against Oklahoma City Thunder, where he scored 31 points along with 11 assists and 10 rebounds, underlines his status as one of the league's premier talents.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 14: Alex Fudge #3 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder  on April 14, 2024 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

While Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic are undoubtedly the headliners, other players have also stepped up significantly. For Oklahoma City Thunder, Chet Holmgren has been a consistent force in defense while contributing an average of 14.7 points over his last three games. Jalen Williams has complemented well with an average of 14 points per game during this span.


Dallas Mavericks have seen P.J. Washington emerge as a key player, averaging an impressive 19.3 points in his last three games alongside Derrick Jones Jr., who contributed significantly with an average of 13 points per game.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 14: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Dallas Mavericks  on April 14, 2024 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

As these two teams prepare to face off at American Airlines Center in Dallas on May 18th at 7:00 PM local time (CDT), fans can catch all the action live on ABC TV network. This matchup not only features two of the most exciting young talents in basketball today but also sets the stage for what could be one of the most thrilling encounters this postseason.

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