Jalen Williams Makes Strides After Wrist Surgery
2025 has been a landmark year for Jalen Williams. He celebrated his first All-Star selection, earned both All-NBA and All-Defensive honors, and clinched his first NBA Championship—all while battling through a significant wrist injury that required offseason surgery. The journey to recovery included a procedure to repair torn ligaments and the removal of screws, which set the stage for his return to the court on November 28. Since then, he has played in the last 15 games for the Bricktown Ballers, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Current Performance and Challenges
This season, Williams hasn’t yet recaptured his All-NBA form. The fourth-year swingman is currently averaging 17.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. His shooting splits reflect a struggle, with 45% from the field, 31% from three-point range, and 84% from the free-throw line—numbers that are notably lower than those from his rookie season.
Such a decline is understandable for a 24-year-old returning from major surgery. The impact of missing training camp has limited his practice opportunities, forcing him to rely on game settings to shake off the rust. Yet, his ability to contribute remains evident.
Coach’s Perspective on Recovery
Mark Daigneault, the head coach, remains optimistic about Williams’s trajectory. “We’re really not going to overreact to a period of time. I think he’s still working back. He’s healthy, but I think he’s still working through a new normal as it relates to his wrist and he’s doing a good job of that,” Daigneault stated.
He emphasized that Williams is integrating well into the team dynamics, competing effectively and finding ways to impact the game. “He’s getting lost in the team. He’s still impactful, and he’s only going to get more rhythm. He’s only going to get more comfortable and confident in his physical ability to do what he needs to do as time goes on.”
Dominating in Other Aspects
In a recent matchup against the Atlanta Hawks, Williams showcased his grit by scoring 20 points, employing a forceful approach and frequently attacking the basket. This trend highlights his current strategy—prioritizing drives to the rim over reliance on his usual smooth mid-range and three-point shooting. With his physical frame, Williams is adept at getting to the cup, which allows him to remain effective as he regains confidence in his shooting touch.
Beyond scoring, Williams continues to excel in other facets of the game. He has emerged as a strong rebounder for his position and has made significant progress as a facilitator, recording five or more assists in all but three games this season. His versatility shines on the defensive end as well; he has yet to have a game without a steal or block. According to Synergy, Williams ranks in the 89th percentile in the NBA for total defensive possessions, underscoring his effectiveness on that side of the ball.
Looking Ahead
As he continues to regain his shooting form, the future looks bright for Jalen Williams. Once his jump shot stabilizes, it’s likely he will reclaim his status as a top 25 player in the league, making his contributions even more impactful for Oklahoma City. The resilience he’s demonstrated thus far speaks volumes about his character and determination to overcome adversity and excel on the court.
