The Oklahoma City Thunder have become the clear front-runner to repeat as NBA champions so far this 2025-26 season. While currently riding a seven-game win streak, the Thunder have a 15-1 record and are three games ahead of any other team in the Western Conference.
Despite not having one of their best players to start the season in Jalen Williams, multiple other players have been able to step up and continue the impressive outings.
Williams, 24, has been ruled out for the Thunder's matchup on Friday against the Utah Jazz, according to Thunder insider Clemente Almanza. Despite missing his 17th straight game, he is still nearing a return.
When will Jalen Wiliams return to the Thunder's lineup?
The 2025 All-Star underwent surgery to repair a torn right scapholunate ligament in his wrist. It was an injury he sustained in the Thunder's championship run in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Williams continued his impressive third year in the league during the playoffs while playing with the injury, where he averaged 21.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting 44.9 percent from the field.
His surgery took place in July. Although he still doesn't have a clear return timeline, Williams is getting closer to suiting up. His next opportunity to play will be on Sunday as the Thunder will host the Portland Trail Blazers.
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