Here’s when Jalen Williams could return for Thunder vs. Lakers
Jalen Williams, star forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is recovering from a Grade 1 left hamstring strain sustained on April 22 during the first round of the NBA playoffs. His return is uncertain for Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers, but he could rejoin the lineup by Game 3 or 4 when the series shifts to Los Angeles. Williams averaged 17.1 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.6 rebounds in 33 regular-season games despite multiple injuries.
- ▪Jalen Williams suffered a Grade 1 left hamstring strain on April 22 during Game 2 against the Suns.
- ▪The Thunder said Williams would be reevaluated weekly, with a typical recovery time of one to two weeks for his injury.
- ▪InStreetClothes, an NBA injury database, estimates an average recovery time of 12.4 days for this type of strain.
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NBA Here’s when Jalen Williams could return for Thunder vs. Lakers By Khobi Price Published May 3, 2026, 7:31 p.m. ET The Lakers aren’t the only team that has been without a star player during the NBA playoffs because of a hamstring injury. The Thunder, whom the Lakers will play in the second round of the playoffs, were without star forward Jalen Williams for the final two games of their first-round series. Thunder star forward Jalen Williams (center) should return sometime during the series against the Lakers. Getty Images Williams suffered a Grade 1 left hamstring strain during Game 2 of the series against the Suns on April 22. His status for Tuesday’s Game 1 against the Lakers is uncertain. The Thunder said April 23 that Williams would be reevaluated weekly.
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