Jalen Williams exited Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals after aggravating the same left hamstring injury that previously caused him to miss six playoff games earlier this postseason.
Williams played just seven minutes before suffering the setback. He received treatment on the bench before heading to the locker room and was officially ruled out at the start of the third quarter.
The Oklahoma City Thunder star originally injured his left hamstring during Game 2 of the first round against the Phoenix Suns. Williams missed the following six games before returning for Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals against the San Antonio Spurs.
In his return, Williams logged 37 minutes and finished with 26 points, seven rebounds and three assists in the loss.
Pro Football Doc Analysis
According to David Chao, Pro Football Doc, Williams is expected to miss at least the remainder of the Western Conference Finals after aggravating the injury.
Hamstring injuries are particularly difficult to manage during the playoffs because explosiveness, lateral movement, and fatigue can all increase the risk of reinjury. Returning after missing only six games likely left Williams vulnerable to aggravation, especially while playing heavy minutes immediately upon return.
If Oklahoma City advances to the NBA Finals, Williams’ availability would remain in question depending on the severity of the setback.
