Jalen Williams faces make-or-break season after injury-hit 2024-25 campaign

Jalen Williams must return at a higher level after injury-plagued season

Jalen Williams is under pressure to improve on his All-NBA Third Team form after missing 31 of 33 regular-season games and all but five postseason contests. The Oklahoma City Thunder forward averaged 21.9 points in 2024-25 but watched his team fall short in the conference finals.

What happened to Jalen Williams in 2024-25?

Williams played only 33 games during the regular season and five in the playoffs after a series of injuries. His absence left Oklahoma City without one of its most reliable scorers in the postseason, when the Thunder lost in the conference finals. The team believes his full availability could have changed the outcome.

Why his recovery matters for the Thunder

Oklahoma City is counting on Williams to take another leap forward in 2025-26. At 25, he remains the franchise’s best second option and must push toward becoming a top-tier player. His Game 5 NBA Finals performance-40 points in a Thunder win-proved he can dominate the biggest stage.

What comes next for Jalen Williams

Williams can’t settle for returning to his 2024-25 level. The Thunder need him to raise his game to help the team return to the NBA Finals. With roster moves and the draft on the horizon, his health and development will decide Oklahoma City’s ceiling next season.