Nostalgia pitched up his tone, with Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the forefront of his mind.  “I grew up in an era where the best player on the best team wins MVP every time,” the Pacers guard said following a 132-111 Thunder win.

Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander credits Lu Dort’s defense for why his team defends at such a high level. Gilgeous-Alexander says Dort is the motor on that end of the floor.

After Daigneault received his flowers last season when he won Coach of the Year, it's Gilgeous-Alexander's turn under the national spotlight. He's likely on his way to an MVP award as his historic 30-point campaign paired with the Thunder's historic dominance is the perfect marriage to win the prestigious trophy.

The Indiana Pacers (43-30) and Oklahoma City Thunder (61-12) meet in a cross-conference matchup on Saturday (8 ET, League Pass). The Thunder take aim at a ninth straight win, while the Pacers look to create more separation in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

Analyzing Saturday’s Indiana Pacers at Oklahoma City Thunder odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

Nets vs Pacers Game Highlights The Indiana Pacers defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 108-103, for their 4th straight win. Indiana Pacers Top Performers Pascal Siakam – 26 points, 6 ass