Why Jalen Williams Should Be Considered Untouchable in Trade Talks

In any trade for a star, the initial conversation will likely include Jalen Williams. Considering general managers around the league view Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren as completely off limits, it makes sense to inquire about the Thunder's rising second-year wing. Everyone wants a player like Williams, and his ceiling is still unknown.

Sam Presti could end up active on the trade market in attempts to improve the team and capitalize on a window opening up, but even if a star becomes available, Williams should be considered untouchable.

He has already improved in nearly every category from his stellar rookie season and fits like a glove with Gilgeous-Alexander. Williams is averaging 17.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists to start his sophomore campaign and has been ultra-efficient once again. He's shooting 50% from the floor, 35.6% from 3-point range and 88.3% from the free throw line.

Williams provides next level off-ball movement and his cuts to the basket helps the Thunder's offense operate. His high basketball I.Q. can't be taught, and he has all the intangibles in the world. Williams has been able to play multiple different positions and provides lineup versatility that the Thunder has always coveted.

His two-way talent is crucial to what Oklahoma City is building and his flashes are too hard to pass up. He's already a special player, but could easily turn into an All-Star soon. Williams has taken over late in games and seems to always rise to the occasion. The bigger the game, the more Williams can be counted on.

As the rebuild reaches full circle, it's important for the Thunder to build around homegrown talent to keep the team's culture and chemistry intact.

If Williams and Holmgren continue on their current trajectory and turn into complementary stars, the Thunder might not need to make a crazy splash trade. Letting draft picks develop and filling in the holes with assets is always the best place to be in, and that's what the team could be looking at here.

It would be too risky to trade a player like Williams, who would certainly star elsewhere and could put up serious numbers as a team's No. 1 option. Keeping him in Oklahoma City should be a priority, and he should be considered untouchable on the trade market.

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