Despite the line being set at 35.5, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is set to surpass that mark in points and rebounds in the upcoming game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the 25-year-old guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has been lighting up the hardwood this season. The dude has been dropping buckets and snagging boards with the kind of consistency that has fantasy leagues and sports bettors buzzing. And when you look at the data, it becomes clear why all eyes will be on Gilgeous-Alexander when the Thunder take on the Timberwolves.

This season, Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 36.14 points and rebounds, already beating the 35.5 line. On home court, his stats jump to 37.07, and even on the road, he's still averaging 35.45. His overall performance has been steady - he's had more than 35.5 points and rebounds in 38 games, and less than 35.5 in 32 games. So, if you're thinking this guy may just surpass the projected line, you're not exactly shooting from half-court.

Let's drill down into more recent performances. Over the last 20 games, Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 37.95 points and rebounds, with more than 35.5 points and rebounds in 12 games. Even in the last 10 games, where he's averaging 35.9 points and rebounds, he's still managed to go over 35.5 in 5 games. The last five games have been a bit of a drop, with an average of 34.8 points and rebounds, but he's still managed to exceed 35.5 in 3 games.

However, don't let the recent downward trend fool you. We're not just looking at a player's performance in a vacuum here. The upcoming game is against the Minnesota Timberwolves, a team that Gilgeous-Alexander has performed well against this season. In their four meetings, he's averaged 35.75 points and rebounds, again, surpassing the 35.5 line.

And then there's the Jaden McDaniels factor. The Timberwolves forward is out for this game, which could spell more opportunities for Gilgeous-Alexander to score and rebound. Without McDaniels' defensive presence, expect Gilgeous-Alexander to take full advantage.

But let's not forget - this isn't just about one game. Gilgeous-Alexander has been having a standout season, putting up MVP-worthy numbers and leading the Thunder to an 11-5 start, placing them second in the Western Conference. He's on track to become one of the franchise's greatest players, already third on the Thunder's all-time leading scorer list, behind only Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant.

So, when the Thunder hit the court against the Timberwolves, expect Gilgeous-Alexander to continue his stellar season. The line may be set at 35.5, but based on season averages, recent performances, and the absence of Jaden McDaniels, it's likely that Gilgeous-Alexander will exceed that mark in points and rebounds. Happy betting!