The Thunder now have a clearer picture of how long they’ll have to manage without Jalen Williams. It’s the rest of the regular season, at minimum.
Williams underwent successful surgery Wednesday to address a fractured left fibula and dislocated ankle, Oklahoma City announced, via Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman.
The procedure included “reconstruction of ankle ligaments following a fracture and dislocation,” according to the team. Williams will be reevaluated after the 2026-27 regular season.
That timetable doesn’t establish whether a postseason return is possible. It does mean the Thunder must build their regular-season plans around his absence.
Williams suffered the injury late in Sunday’s win over the Clippers and left the court on a stretcher. It was another difficult setback after injuries disrupted much of his previous season.
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Oklahoma City is also without Cason Wallace indefinitely because of a torn shoulder labrum, leaving substantial holes in its perimeter defense and offensive creation.
Ajay Mitchell and Jared McCain started in their places during Monday’s win over the Suns. Both will have opportunities to take on more responsibility alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
For Sam Presti, the question is how much help the current roster can provide and whether an outside addition becomes necessary.
The Thunder have options to explore. Replacing everything Williams contributes, though, will require considerably more than filling his spot in the starting lineup.
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