Thunder forward Jalen Williams exited Game 2 with a left hamstring injury, casting uncertainty over OKC's first-round series.
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s 120-107 win over the Phoenix Suns to take a 2-0 series lead was clouded by star forward Jalen Williams exiting Game 2 in the third quarter. Williams appeared to grab at his left leg after a missed layup. Ultimately, OKC is in a good position against the Suns, but there is a lot more uncertainty in Game 2 with a potential hamstring aggravation for Williams. He had missed a contested layup on a fast break and grabbed at his left right after while appearing to mouth “Left hammy.” Williams intentionally took a foul in order to exit and did not return to the game, immediately heading to the locker room and not speaking to media postgame.
Head coach Mark Daigneault confirmed that it was an apparent left hamstring, and that the team will evaluate in the next couple games. Williams only appeared in 33 games this season due to injuries, and while it was the opposite hamstring, had two extended absences with a right hamstring strain. He’s known to play through pain, playing through a torn wrist ligament during the 2025 championship. But the team will need to find stars to step up in his absence.
Here is the full story from Thunder Roundtable writer Braxton Reynolds on who may need to step up on the roster in Game 3.
Williams was electric in the Game 1 blowout with 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. He had a strong start in Game 2 with 19 points on 7-of-11 shooting and four assists in 23 minutes of play. Ultimately, OKC holds the 2-0 game lead ahead of Saturday’s game in Phoenix, but Williams’ availability could define the remainder of this series.