Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 2024-25 MVP season with the Oklahoma City Thunder sparked debates about his dominance and how he gets his points. Some critics label him a ‘foul merchant,” considering he relies mainly on drawing fouls to score. However, a closer look at his stats tells a different story.
Despite averaging 32.7 points per game, Gilgeous ranks 23rd among players who have averaged 30+ points per game since 2005 in free throw attempts per game. This places him just 10th among the last 20 MVPs, indicating that his scoring efficiency is not totally dependent on free throws.
Further analysis shows that Gilgeous ‘s driving game is both practical and efficient. He leads the league with 23 drives per game. His field goal percentage on drives stands at 54.4%, surpassing Anthony Edwards’ 44.7%. While Edwards draws fouls at a higher rate of his drives, Gilgeous-Alexander’s combination of scoring and playmaking on drives showcases his well-rounded offensive game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks 23rd in free throw attempts among players who averaged 30+ PPG since 2005 — and just 10th among the last 20 MVPs
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 22, 2025
Maybe the ‘foul merchant’ talk is overblown 😬
pic.twitter.com/t6QvdqAMbh
Gilgeous ‘s ability to score efficiently through various means, including drives and mid-range shooting, underscores his status as a deserving MVP. His performance this season solidified his position among the elite players in the league.
Social Media Makes Their Opinion About Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Tag A “Foul Merchant”
When Gilgeous is busy celebrating his achievement, critics are doubting his credibility. People on social media joined in the conversation, making their opinions on X(Twitter).
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One fan wrote, “Luka averaged 32 8 and 8 last year. Why didn’t he win MVP?”
Luka averaged 32 8 and 8 last year
— Buddy Boy Bets (@Buddyboybets) May 22, 2025
Why didn’t he win MVP?
A fan commented that the fact won’t be changed, that Shai is a true free-throw merchant, “Still doesn’t change the fact that Shai is a true free throw merchant.”
Still doesn’t change the fact that Shai is a true free throw merchant
— joey tha demon (@joeythademon1) May 22, 2025
Someone stated, “id respect it if he was playing through the contact for a hard bucket but the guy is foul baiting and flopping every contact.”
id respect it if he was playing through the contact for a hard bucket but the guy is foul baiting and flopping every contact.
— itztwo (@itztwoo) May 22, 2025
One was sure, “no kid he’s a foul merchant.”,
no kid he’s a foul merchant
— claps ⌖ (@cIapsx) May 22, 2025
One commented, “Too many free throws.”
Too many free throws
— Corona Greenape (@EdgarApe2) May 22, 2025
The “foul merchant” label often attached to Gilgeous-Alexander is far from his statistical evidence. He doesn’t shoot that many free throws compared to top scorers and MVPs. The narrative of his tag doesn’t carry statistical scrutiny, but ultimately, his scoring skill goes well beyond just getting to the line.
