Jalen Williams Returns to Action with the Thunder
Oklahoma City Thunder All-NBA guard Jalen Williams is set to make his season debut against the Phoenix Suns this Friday.
Williams recovered from surgery on his right wrist performed in July, followed by a procedure to remove a screw on October 31. This happened after playing with a torn ligament last season.
The Thunder have had a dominant start this season, with an 18-1 record, and the best point differential in the first 19 games in NBA history, with a +16.5. Oklahoma City is only the fifth team in league history to start a season with an 18-1.
Last season, Williams established himself as one of the best players in the NBA, averaging 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He was one of two players to be selected for both the All-NBA and All-Defense teams.
Williams led the NBA in points per direct isolation allowed and ranked in the top five in points per direct drive allowed. He was one of four players with 1,400 points, 300 rebounds, 300 assists, and 100 steals last season.
Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams combined for 1,180 points in the 2025 playoffs, the fourth-most by a duo in a single postseason in NBA history.
The Thunder will be patient and cautious in reintegrating Williams, having had previous experience with the long absence of star center Chet Holmgren last season.
In Williams’ absence, the Thunder have received production from Ajay Mitchell and other players, with the second-year guard averaging 15.9 points, 3.6 assists, and 1.7 steals. Isaiah Joe has also contributed, averaging a career-high 13.2 points, with 40.2% three-point shooting.
Williams missed the first 19 games of the season and is not eligible for postseason awards, which means he is no longer in line for the $287 million super-max contract bonus on his five-year, $239 million extension.
