Thunder star Jalen Williams out Game 1 vs. Lakers
Oklahoma City Thunder star Jalen Williams has been ruled out for Game 1 of their playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a Grade 1 left hamstring strain. Head coach Mark Daigneault stated that Williams is progressing but did not provide a specific return timeline. The Lakers will also be without Luka Doncic for the game, adding to the challenges for both teams in the opening matchup.
- ▪Jalen Williams suffered a Grade 1 left hamstring strain during Game 2 of the Thunder's first-round series against the Phoenix Suns on April 22.
- ▪Williams played only 33 games during the regular season due to multiple injuries, including a wrist surgery and prior hamstring issues.
- ▪Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault said Williams is progressing but declined to release a detailed recovery timeline.
- ▪Luka Doncic has also been ruled out for Game 1, leaving the Lakers shorthanded as well.
- ▪Williams averaged 20.5 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds in the two games he played against the Suns in the first round.
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NBA Thunder star Jalen Williams out Game 1 vs. Lakers By Ryan Kostecka Published May 4, 2026, 10:07 p.m. ET As expected, the reigning champs will be shorthanded Tuesday night. Star wing Jalen Williams has been ruled out in Game 1 against the Lakers due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain. “He’s progressing according to plan, I would say,” Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault said Monday when speaking with media. “In terms of a timeline, we’re not going to release that. We’ll continue to let you guys know on a week-to-week basis.” Thunder star wing Jalen Williams has been ruled OUT for Tuesday’s Game 1 vs. the Lakers. NBAE via Getty Images It was an injury-ravaged season for Williams in which he only played 33 games, less than half the regular season.
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