Without a doubt, the Thunder are favored to claim back-to-back championships. That’s not a given, but at 36-8, it’s hard to pick anyone else.
The key, of course, is good health. As always. And right now, again, the Thunder are missing All-Star forward Jalen Williams — who’s out for a while with an injured hamstring.
They survived their time without Williams and his wrist injury earlier this year. Can they do it again? That seems to be the question.
“It has been a difficult season for Oklahoma City’s co-star,” wrote ESPN’s Anthony Slater. “His wrist rehab required a second procedure; he acknowledged the challenges he faced rediscovering his game upon return, and now he’s staring at another lengthy absence.
“Without him, the Thunder will continue to rely on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, sturdy depth, and the continued rise of Chet Holmgren, who appears destined to be the second obvious All-Star for the Thunder.”
OKC has gotten this far with Williams sidelined for a large chunk of the season. But they need him when it matters most. That much we all know.
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