Sports
Thunder lose Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace to major injuries
Oklahoma City’s Jalen Williams fractured his left fibula and dislocated his ankle, while Cason Wallace tore a labrum in his left shoulder. Both players are expected to undergo surgery and will miss several months, with no return date set.
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Thunder will be without Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace for an extended stretch after both players suffered injuries in Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers that require surgery, general manager Sam Presti said Monday.
Williams dislocated his left ankle and fractured his fibula, injuries that will keep him out for several months. Wallace tore the labrum in his left shoulder and also faces several months away from the court. The team has not set return dates for either player.
Williams was hurt with 1:14 remaining while driving toward the basket and being fouled. Medical personnel attended to him on the court, and play was stopped for about five minutes as he was taken away on a stretcher. He gave two thumbs up while leaving the floor.
The injury adds to a difficult run for Williams, who missed much of the 2025-26 season and the Thunder’s playoff run because of leg injuries. Oklahoma City’s postseason ended in the Western Conference finals.
Teammates were visibly shaken after Williams went down. “It’s unfortunate his luck so far. But he’s equipped for it. He’s a warrior guy,” Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said.
Coach Mark Daigneault said the moment was difficult for players on both teams. Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt also sent a message of support, urging fans to wear Williams jerseys to Monday night’s home game.
The Thunder, who entered Monday at 3-0, were scheduled to host the Phoenix Suns at Paycom Center. Wallace and Williams had both left Sunday’s game with injuries; Jaylin Williams also exited with a right wrist injury, according to the team update reported Monday.