Key OKC Thunder Player Makes Statement in Return From Injury

In his return, the 22-year-old recorded 3 points, 2 assists and 1 block in eight minutes of action. Although he did not light up the stat sheet, his return was an important one for the Thunder.

Oklahoma City has dealt with a plethora of frontcourt injuries, and their lack of frontcourt depth has made it hard this season. Isaiah Hartenstein missed the beginning of the season with an injury but has since returned. They have also been without Chet Holmgren, who suffered a hip injury in early November and is expected to be reevaluated in early January.

In the trio's absence, the Thunder had to use Jalen Williams as their center. He is undersized but fared well in relief before Hartenstein returned from his injury.

With Williams’ return, the Thunder have gotten a key piece off their bench back as well as an important part of their frontcourt depth. They should take it slow as Williams continues to get resituated in the lineup, but he should have a larger role down the road, especially with Holmgren still out.

The Thunder continue to dominate the NBA without a healthy roster, so having Williams return along with the eventual return of Holmgren should make them an even bigger threat to win a championship this season.