Oklahoma City Thunder could potentially be missing Jalen Williams because of a recurring hamstring issue.
Williams collapsed during the initial stages of the second half during Wednesday’s 120-107 win for the Thunder against the Phoenix Suns. This triumph, secured at the Paycom Center, established a 2-0 advantage for the Thunder in their first-round playoff matchup before it moves to Phoenix later in the week.
After missing a layup around the midpoint of the third quarter, Williams clutched his leg uncomfortably beneath the hoop as the game proceeded in the opposite direction, clearly appearing distressed. He did not exit the match instantly, yet Williams was visibly troubled and experiencing considerable discomfort.
Following an attempt to continue playing for a few sequences, Williams ultimately removed himself from the game, indicating his left hamstring in the process.
Williams ultimately hobbled toward the changing room and did not rejoin the game.
“Our belief is that he re-injured his left hamstring,” stated Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault post-game. “We plan to assess it over the upcoming days and will provide an update as soon as it’s suitable.”
Even though Williams has been absent for a considerable duration this season, his fourth professional year, due to a hamstring issue, the injury sustained on Wednesday represents a fresh concern. Earlier in the season, Williams was sidelined for 49 contests, primarily due to a right leg hamstring strain. Following his contribution to the Thunder’s NBA Finals victory last season, Williams had wrist surgery in July, causing him to miss the commencement of the current regular season.
Notwithstanding his restricted playing time, Williams posted averages of 17.1 points and 5.5 assists per game this season, aiding the Thunder in securing the premier seed in the Western Conference. In the Thunder’s dominant 119-84 Game 1 victory of the series, he contributed 22 points and seven rebounds.
Williams had accumulated 19 points, shooting 7-of-11 from the floor before his exit on Wednesday. Regardless of his premature departure, the Thunder maintained a 23-point advantage entering the last quarter, ultimately securing the 13-point win by weathering a final surge from Phoenix.
Dillon Brooks was the Suns’ top scorer with 30 points in their defeat, having converted 5 of 9 attempts from beyond the arc. Devin Booker concluded with 22 points and seven rebounds, while Jalen Green tallied 21 points. The Suns committed 21 turnovers.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded the Thunder’s offense with 37 points and nine assists. Chet Holmgren registered 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Ajay Mitchell contributed 14 points as a reserve.
Although the Thunder have encountered no substantial difficulties thus far in the postseason, the potential absence of Williams for an extended period would alter the complexion of the series, offering an opportunity for the Suns as they return to their home arena this Saturday. Furthermore, considering Williams’ recent history with injuries, it is improbable that the Thunder would rush his return to play.
