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Here are 3 Thunder players who can step up if Jalen Williams misses time

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Here are 3 Thunder players who can step up if Jalen Williams misses time

The Oklahoma City Thunder face a potential setback with Jalen Williams listed as questionable after a hamstring injury in Game 2 against the San Antonio Spurs. If Williams misses time, Chet Holmgren, Ajay Mitchell, and Cason Wallace must step up to fill the scoring void and improve performance in the Western Conference Finals.

Jalen Williams, a key player for the Oklahoma City Thunder, sustained a hamstring injury during their Game 2 win over the San Antonio Spurs and is listed as questionable for Game 3. His availability remains uncertain, as he has already missed significant time this season due to injuries, including two wrist surgeries and four hamstring issues, limiting him to just 33 regular-season games and two playoff appearances. With Williams potentially out, the Thunder will rely on Chet Holmgren to regain his All-NBA form. Holmgren struggled in the first two games of the Western Conference Finals, averaging 10.5 points on 41.2% shooting, a stark contrast to his earlier playoff performance where he averaged 18.6 points on 60% shooting. His ability to dominate against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs’ interior defense will be critical for Oklahoma City’s chances. Ajay Mitchell has emerged as a breakout star in the playoffs, particularly against the Lakers, where he averaged 22.5 points on 56.3% shooting. While his scoring dipped slightly in the first two games against the Spurs, his role becomes even more vital if Williams is sidelined. Mitchell’s scoring has shifted from a luxury to an essential component of the Thunder’s offense. Cason Wallace, who has flown under the radar, has shown promise in the Western Conference Finals, scoring 20 points in the first two games combined and shooting 6-of-11 from three. If Williams misses time, Wallace could see increased playing time, including potential starts. His ability to contribute from the outside and in transition will be crucial for the Thunder’s group effort against the Spurs. The Spurs have struggled to contain Oklahoma City’s role players from the outside, a strategy that backfired in the first two games of the series. If Williams remains out, the Thunder will need Holmgren, Mitchell, and Wallace to elevate their play collectively. The team’s ability to adapt and distribute scoring responsibilities will determine their path to the 2026 NBA Finals.

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