Shai Gilgeous-Alexander powers Thunder amidst injury challenges ahead of Suns showdown
The Oklahoma City Thunder, fresh off their recent NBA championship, continue to assert their dominance in the league with an impressive 18-1 record, standing as the team to beat. At the helm is reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, complemented by the promising Chet Holmgren, who is on the verge of an All-Star nod, alongside a roster brimming with talented two-way players. The Thunder recently secured a victory in a rematch of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, reaffirming their position at the top of the Western Conference standings.
Injury Report Overview
Despite their success, the Thunder have faced a more extensive injury list than many teams in the league. However, a glimmer of hope emerged Thursday as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Phoenix Suns in another NBA Cup game. A victory would secure their lead in West Group A. Here’s the latest on the injury front for both teams:
Oklahoma City Thunder injuries:
Branden Carlson — Available: Nasal fracture
Thomas Sorber — Out: Right ACL
Nikola Topic — Out: N/A
Aaron Wiggins — Out: Left adductor
Phoenix Suns injuries:
Grayson Allen — Out: Right quadriceps
Ryan Dunn — Out: Right wrist
Jalen Green — Out: Right hamstring
Jalen Williams Returns
One significant development for the Thunder is the return of wing Jalen Williams, who missed 19 regular season games. Williams sustained a wrist injury during last year’s postseason but persevered through to help his team clinch the championship, notably scoring 40 points in a pivotal Game 5. After a minor setback in his recovery at the start of this season, he is now set to rejoin the starting lineup on Friday night against the Suns.
Last season, Williams shone with an average of 21.6 points per game on 48% shooting, earning All-Star, All-NBA, and All-Defense nominations. His absence had been a topic of conversation around the league, especially as the Thunder embark on one of the most remarkable starts in Western Conference history.
Kenrich Williams Joins the Roster
In addition to Williams’ return, forward Kenrich Williams recently came off the injury report, making his season debut against Minnesota. This development means that, aside from Aaron Wiggins—who is sidelined with a left adductor strain—the Thunder’s injury report is at its thinnest this season.
Suns Facing Their Own Challenges
On the other side, the Suns are grappling with their own injury issues. Notably, Grayson Allen, who has been enjoying a breakout year, is unable to play, along with forward Ryan Dunn and offseason acquisition Jalen Green, who is also nursing an injury.
As the Thunder and Suns prepare to face off at 8:30 p.m. CT in Oklahoma City, the stakes are high. Both teams will be looking to solidify their positions as they navigate the early stages of the season, with the Thunder hoping to maintain their status as frontrunners in the league.
