Jalen Williams’ expectation for Spurs opener would be ideal scenario for Thunder star

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams is preparing for his fifth NBA season following an injury-plagued 2025-26 campaign. Williams was limited to 33 regular-season appearances and missed all but five playoff games due to wrist issues and recurrent hamstring strains. He is looking ahead to OKC's upcoming season opener against the San Antonio Spurs, which he expects will feature a playoff-type atmosphere.

Prior to last season, Williams appeared in at least 69 games in each of his previous NBA campaigns. During Oklahoma City's 2025 championship run, he served as the team's primary secondary option while playing through a torn scapholunate ligament in his right shooting wrist that later required surgery.