Jalen Williams is showing promising signs of a return to form for the Oklahoma City Thunder after a challenging 19-game absence to begin the season. Williams, who had suffered a wrist injury during the NBA Finals last season, played a pivotal role in helping the Thunder secure their first NBA title. His return to the court against the Phoenix Suns marked a significant moment for both him and the team.
While his initial outing didn’t generate spectacular statistics, Williams contributed to the team’s efforts in a solid performance that included 11 points, eight assists, four rebounds, and two steals during the NBA Cup win over the Suns. His gradual integration back into the lineup has been encouraging, showcasing his growth as a player. In the four subsequent games, Williams marked an impressive resurgence with scoring outputs of 16, 22, 15, and 25 points, reflecting not only his individual progress but also a reinvigorated team chemistry, crucial after navigating the first 18 games of the season without him.
Since Williams’ return, the Thunder have bolstered their record to an extraordinary 24-1, matching an all-time NBA record for the best start through 25 games in a season. This remarkable achievement underscores the potential of the team moving forward as they aim for continued success. The synergy between Williams and his teammates promises to elevate their performance even further, offering a hopeful outlook for the Thunder as the season unfolds.