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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gladly seeing Luka Doncic take popular moniker from him

Luka Doncic may be on the brink of surpassing OKC Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the league's next notorious "free-throw merchant."

By Mark Nilon · Thunderous Intentions

Published: Wednesday, 4 November 2026 at 9:13 PM

Key Things to Know

Mark Nilon argues Luka Doncic is usurping Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's reputation as the NBA's premier "free-throw merchant."
Doncic is averaging a league-leading 10.1 free-throw attempts per game through seven games.
Doncic is on pace for 818 free-throw attempts, compared to Gilgeous-Alexander's projected 469 attempts.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Mark Nilon writes that Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander may finally lose the "free-throw merchant" moniker to Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic. In the early stretch of the 2026-27 NBA season, Doncic is leading the league with 10.1 free-throw attempts per game across seven contests, putting him on pace for 818 attempts.

In contrast, Gilgeous-Alexander is projected for 469 free-throw attempts this season. The article also notes that Gilgeous-Alexander's broader offensive efficiency has dipped amid injuries to Thunder teammates Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, prompting a need for OKC's supporting cast to shoulder more responsibility.

Read the full article on Thunderous Intentions

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gladly seeing Luka Doncic take popular moniker from him

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