Alexander, who was presented with his 2025 NBA MVP trophy on Thursday, is one of the most frustrating players to guard in the league, due to his unique style of play -- which earns him numerous trips to the free throw line -- and high level of skill.

Gilgeous-Alexander drove toward the lane and beat McDaniels on the play, when the Timberwolves star shoved the star guard and sent him to the ground in a heap. Players from both sides jawed at one another as the tension ramped up, and when the dust settled, McDaniels received a Flagrant 1 — not that he minded.

Timberwolves star Jaden McDaniels, one of the league's best defenders, took matters into his own hands in Game 2. In a 118-103 Oklahoma City win where Gilgeous-Alexander drew nine