Deadspin: Thunder tasked with moving past Jalen Williams injury as Suns visit Oklahoma City
Williams injured late in win
Williams went down with 1:14 remaining in Oklahoma City’s 108-101 victory over the Clippers. He was driving toward the basket when he landed awkwardly after a hard foul by Kris Dunn, which was upgraded to a flagrant foul after video review.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said the injury was difficult for the team. Williams is expected to miss Monday’s game and more games afterward, though no timeline was provided.
Oklahoma City faces absences
Cason Wallace and Jaylin Williams also left Sunday’s game during the first quarter because of injuries. Daigneault said the team would regroup and assess its situation the following day.
Jalen Williams missed much of last season with a series of injuries, including the closing games of Oklahoma City’s first-round series against Phoenix and the full second round against the Los Angeles Lakers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said the team would keep working while injured players recover.
Phoenix seeks defensive improvement
The Suns arrive after beating Golden State 131-122 at home Saturday. Phoenix has split its first two games, while recording an NBA-worst 123.0 defensive rating and allowing 123 points per game.
Phoenix has also given up a league-high 17.5 offensive rebounds per game. Devin Booker said opponents may pursue more rebounds when teams develop a reputation for allowing them, while coach Jordan Ott pointed to defensive breakdowns that create chances near the basket. Forward Oso Ighodaro is doubtful for Monday with a right oblique strain suffered in Phoenix’s season opener.
Key points
- Jalen Williams suffered a severe left leg injury in Sunday’s win over the Clippers.
- The Thunder could also be without Cason Wallace and Jaylin Williams against Phoenix.
- Oklahoma City swept the Suns in last season’s first-round playoff series.
- Phoenix has allowed 123 points per game while splitting its first two contests.