Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams is available to make his 2025-26 season debut Friday against the Phoenix Suns. The All-NBA player has missed the first 19 games while recovering from offseason wrist surgery. The game marks the Thunder's final NBA Cup group play matchup.
Jalen Williams, the 24-year-old All-NBA Third Team and All-Defensive Second Team selection from last season, has been sidelined since undergoing wrist surgery on July 1 to repair a torn ligament. The injury stemmed from the playoffs during Oklahoma City's 2025 NBA championship run, where Williams played through the damage. He had a follow-up procedure on October 31 to remove a screw causing irritation.
Williams is no longer listed on the Thunder's injury report, per multiple reports including ESPN's Shams Charania. Last season, he appeared in 69 games, averaging career highs of 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, earning his first All-Star nod.
Due to missing the first 19 games, Williams is ineligible for postseason awards, affecting potential contract incentives. The Thunder have thrived without him, posting an 18-1 record, including 3-0 in NBA Cup Group A play and 10 straight wins.
The Friday matchup at 8:30 p.m. at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City concludes Thunder's group stage. A win secures their spot in the eight-team knockout round; even a loss likely clinches the West wild card with their plus-71 point differential.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised Williams' rehab efforts. "Day to day and is doing a great job," Daigneault said before Wednesday's game. "There’s so much invisible work... He was on the court by 8:30." This return bolsters the league's top team in record, defense, and net rating.
