Mark Daigneault revealed that Jaylin Williams is expected to miss the beginning of the 2023-24 NBA season with a hamstring injury, per Oklahoma City Thunder beat writer Brett Dawson. Williams, who is dealing with a hamstring strain, reportedly suffered the injury in practice, and he will be re-evaluated in a “couple of weeks”, according to Dawson.
The 21-year-old is expected to play a big role for Oklahoma City this season. This injury is a major blow, but the Thunder are hopeful he won’t miss too much time.
Williams displayed promise during his rookie year, averaging 5.9 points per game on 43.6 percent field goal shooting. He added 4.9 rebounds per contest across 49 games played. The center isn’t a star, but the Thunder believe in his ability and potential.
For now, Williams doesn’t have a set timetable for his return. The Thunder will monitor his status closely moving forward. He’s an important part of their core, and OKC is hopeful he can return sooner rather than later.
NBA iNJURY NEWS: Jaylin Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Oklahoma City is looking to have a big 2023-24 campaign. Their primary core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren feature an extremely high ceiling. Winning in the West will be a challenge without question but this young Thunder squad will not back down. Perhaps they can surprise some people in the conference.
Holmgren missed the entire 2022-23 season, which would have been his rookie year, with an injury. He’s entering his official rookie season now and will be a candidate to win Rookie of the Year. However, Victor Wembanyama may have something to say about that.
NBA iNJURY NEWS: Jaylin Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Nevertheless, Holmgren’s presence will prove to be pivotal for OKC. Meanwhile, Giddey is a good player who is developing consistently. But Gilgeous-Alexander is the star of the team. He’s one of the most underrated players in the game but is emerging as one of the best players in the NBA.
They will be a competitive team if the Thunder can get healthy and avoid long-term injuries in 2023-24.
