Oklahoma City Thunder’s Jalen Williams has been on a challenging journey over the past year. After facing injuries that sidelined him for 46 games in the 2025-26 season, he is now making a return to form. Although his shooting percentage remains a concern, his overall performance indicates he is still a key player for the team.
Jalen Williams’ Shooting Struggles and Return
Williams, who has been dealing with a wrist injury, had a shooting percentage of 36.5% during the 2024-25 regular season. However, his playoff performance saw a decline, with just 30.4% from the field. This trend has continued into the current season, where he is shooting 30.1% from beyond the arc across 30 games.
Proving All-NBA Worth
Despite these struggles, Williams has showcased his star potential in multiple aspects of his game. His recent performances highlight his ability to impact the game beyond just shooting. For instance, he scored 28 points in just 20 minutes on February 11, before facing another hamstring injury that kept him out for 16 games.
- 28 points in 20 minutes on February 11
- 18 points, 6 assists in his return game
- 22 points in 29 minutes, shooting 7-of-11
Recent Performance Highlights
In his limited time on the floor this season, Williams has averaged 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per 36 minutes. His field goal percentage stands at 48.2%, which is slightly below last season’s 48.4%. His aggressive play style and enhanced facilitating role are evident, helping the Thunder maintain a high offensive and defensive rating.
Impact on Team Performance
Williams’ presence on the court has considerably benefited the Thunder. The team’s offensive rating has reached sixth-best, while their defensive rating ranks seventh when he plays. This ranking underscores Williams’ vital role in maintaining the team’s competitive edge, despite ongoing challenges with his shooting form.
In conclusion, Jalen Williams continues to prove his All-NBA worth through his resilience and adaptability. While shooting remains an area for improvement, his contributions to the game affirm his status as a significant asset for the Oklahoma City Thunder as they navigate the rest of the season.
