Jalen Williams Returns Just in Time for Thunder’s Crucial Stretch Without SGA
The Oklahoma City Thunder are getting a much-needed boost - and not a moment too soon. Jalen Williams is set to return to the lineup Monday night against the Los Angeles Lakers, a welcome sight for a team that’s been navigating a tough stretch without its full arsenal.
Williams had been sidelined for the past 10 games after suffering a hamstring strain in a January 17 loss to the Miami Heat. Over the last couple of weeks, he’s been gradually ramping up his activity - first at practice, then in pregame warmups - and now he’s officially off the injury report. That’s a green light Thunder fans have been waiting for.
And they’ve needed it. Oklahoma City has been without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the last two games, and the MVP candidate is expected to miss at least three more with an abdominal strain. He’ll be re-evaluated after the All-Star break, but until then, the Thunder have to find ways to stay afloat without their engine.
That’s where Williams comes in.
When healthy, Williams is more than just a complementary piece - he’s a dynamic two-way player who can create offense, defend multiple positions, and provide the kind of versatility OKC leans on heavily. In his 24 games this season, he’s averaging 16.8 points on 47% shooting, along with 5.6 assists and 4.8 rebounds. Those aren’t just solid numbers - they’re the kind of stats that reflect his ability to impact the game in multiple ways, especially when asked to take on more responsibility.
The challenge for Williams this season has simply been staying on the floor. He missed the team’s first 19 games while recovering from torn wrist ligaments - an injury he played through during OKC’s deep playoff run last year.
That kind of toughness is respected in any locker room, but it’s also taken a toll. Now, as he returns from yet another setback, the Thunder are hoping he can stay healthy and help stabilize the team until Gilgeous-Alexander is back.
Luckily, Williams won’t have to do it alone. Chet Holmgren continues to be a steady presence in the frontcourt, and with those two on the floor, OKC still has enough firepower to compete - even against a tough Western Conference slate.
The Thunder aren’t just looking to survive this stretch - they’re trying to maintain momentum in a season where expectations are real. Williams’ return doesn’t solve everything, but it gives them a crucial piece back at a time when every game matters.