OKC Thunder: Jalen Williams Showing Star Potential During Pivotal Playoff Push

Jalen Williams already looks like the steal of the draft, but now he’s starting to look like a future All-Star.

Jalen Williams has been on quite the hot streak lately and is firmly establishing himself as the biggest steal of the 2023 NBA Draft class. More than that, though, Williams is starting to flash All-Star potential as the Thunder push for a playoff berth.

Without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams has been the primary offensive option and helped carry Oklahoma City to multiple victories. The two-way prowess and efficiency on the floor is just the beginning of what Williams could become.

Over the last six games, Williams is averaging 23.5 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.2 rebounds. During that same span, he’s had ultra-efficient offensive outings, like a 12-for-15 showing against Utah and a 7-for-10 performance at New Orleans. He’s getting to the rim at-will and finding creative ways to finish.

The stretch extends beyond just six games, though. In the Thunder’s last 15 games, over a month of sample size, Williams is averaging 20 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.6 assists. On the defensive side, the rookie is averaging 2.3 steals per game. Oklahoma City has needed every win possible over the last month and Williams’ strong stretch is a big reason the team stayed afloat.

He’s a dream fit on Oklahoma City’s unique roster, as he can slide in wherever needed. He’s started games at the four and played quite a bit of forward, but he handles the ball and operates pick-and-roll situations like a point guard. In the Thunder’s last game against San Antonio, it was clear the team wanted the ball in his hands during crunch time. His position versatility will be extremely valuable moving forward.

Williams’ strong play has him sitting at No. 2 on the NBA’s Rookie Ladder and he's showing no signs of slowing down. The Thunder will need every bit of his production to sneak into the playoffs and make noise.

The No. 12 pick looks like an ideal player for the Thunder and someone that will truly grow with a player like Gilgeous-Alexander. When Chet Holmgren returns from injury, Williams’ defensive ceiling will expand too.

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