Thunder All-Star Jalen Williams unable to return vs. Nuggets with hip strain

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be without his number two as he attempts to beat rival MVP candidate Nikola Jokic’s Denver Nuggets for a second consecutive game.

Oklahoma City Thunder wing Jalen Williams sustained a right hip strain and was ruled out of Monday’s game after the first half.

A first-time All-Star in 2025, Williams is averaging 21.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.7 steals this season.

The 23-year old is second on the Western Conference-leading Thunder in scoring, assists, and steals.

Fellow Thunder wing Aaron Wiggins, who is also in the midst of a breakout season, will need to step up in Williams’ absence.