As Gilgeous-Alexander looks to lead the Thunder past the Grizzlies in a hopeful journey for their first NBA championship, there's no denying he has respect within the league. Nash would continue to praise the 26-year-old and list the traits he has that makes him a top player in the association.

Splitting between Jaren Jackson Jr. and Marvin Bagley III, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sliced his way to the basket for the easy layup. He let out a sigh of relief. Like regular people who go to the park, the MVP candidate needed to see one go through the basket before he was pulled off the court for the last time.

The Thunder took Game 2 against the Grizzlies 118-99 Tuesday night in Oklahoma City. It wasn’t the 51-point blowout of Game 1, but it wasn’t exactly close, either. MUSSATTO: Thunder vs Grizzlies isn't a fair fight in NBA Playoffs, but can series end mercifully?