Like Ned Stark's warning about a brutal impending winter, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander pulled off his own version of the epic "Game of Thrones" line — close games are coming for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The 26-year-old guard has chosen to represent himself in contract negotiations, a move that has sparked discussions among NBA analysts. When asked how much agent fees played into his decision to rep himself, Gilgeous-Alexander provided a thoughtful response that highlighted his broader aspirations.

Alexander's third All-Star experience was nearly corrupted by the NBA’s new format. That it didn’t steal his Sunday joy was his choice.