Scottie Barnes Defends Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Amid Free-Throw Criticism

Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the reigning NBA MVP and the favorite to claim the award yet again this season.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s talent and production are undeniable, but there are many who criticize his style of play.

Over the past few years, there’s been a growing narrative around SGA. Many fans and analysts criticize the All-Star point guard for his tendency to hunt for fouls and get to the free-throw line.

Toronto Raptors All-Star Scottie Barnes defended Gilgeous-Alexander against this narrative during a recent livestream.

“Shai don’t really foul bait, yo. He’s aggressive going to the basket so they call fouls for him,” Barnes said. “Of course if you drive the ball that many times, you’re going to get fouled. He’s tough.

“There’s no reason to hate on his game. I don’t like that argument. That argument is so bad to me.”

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Gilgeous-Alexander ranked third in NBA free-throw attempts through the regular-season with 9 per game, trailing only Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija (9.2) and Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic (10.1). He ranks second among players remaining in the 2026 postseason with 9.7 attempts per game, narrowly trailing Detroit Pistons point guard Cade Cunningham (9.9).

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Gilgeous-Alexander attempted 17 free throws in the Thunder’s playoff-opening win over the Phoenix Suns. He took just three attempts in a Game 1 win over Los Angeles.

The Thunder lead the Lakers 3-0 heading into Game 4, which will tipoff at 10:30 p.m. ET on Monday.

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This story was originally published May 11, 2026 at 4:29 PM.