Jalen Williams returns to energize Thunder’s Western Conference clash against Suns
The Oklahoma City Thunder are poised for an even stronger season as they welcome back their All-NBA swingman, Jalen Williams. After a spectacular 18-1 start, the Thunder are set to elevate their game with Williams rejoining the lineup. The Santa Clara product had been sidelined for the first 19 games due to offseason wrist surgery, a procedure necessary to repair torn ligaments he suffered during the final regular-season game last April against none other than the Phoenix Suns.
Despite his injury, Williams showcased resilience by playing through the postseason, playing a pivotal role in guiding the Thunder to their first championship. Now, as the Thunder prepare to face the Suns again on Friday, this matchup carries significant weight. The contest will determine the winner of Western Conference Group A, with both teams unbeaten in Pool Play. The stakes are high: the victor clinches group honors and secures a position in the knockout stage.
As the Suns arrive with a 12-7 overall record this season, Williams’s return adds a potent spark to an already formidable squad. Last season, he demonstrated his all-around game with impressive averages of 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. His shooting percentages were equally impressive, hitting 48% from the field, 36% from three-point range, and 78% from the free-throw line across 69 games.
While Williams’s absence from the first part of the season means he is ineligible for NBA awards—an aspect that could affect his contract—his presence is sure to invigorate the Thunder. With stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Williams himself, Coach Mark Daigneault’s squad is already making waves in the league. The anticipation builds as they prepare to face off against the Suns in a critical showdown that promises to showcase the Thunder’s depth and ambition.
