Jalen Williams Leads OKC Thunder to Victory in Return Against 76ers

Jalen Williams made a strong return Monday as the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Philadelphia 76ers 123-103. Williams played 20 minutes and produced 18 points, six assists and four rebounds.

Williams returns from injury

Williams had missed 16 games with a right hamstring strain. He also sat out the first 19 games this season after two surgeries to repair a torn scapholunate ligament.

The forward shot 8-for-14 from the floor and 1-for-3 from long range. He said his right shooting wrist feels better than it has in a long time.

Team performance and streak

The victory extended Oklahoma City’s winning streak to 12 games. The Thunder improved to 57-15 on the season.

Head coach Mark Daigneault praised the return of injured players. He called integrating them back into the rotation a welcome, energizing puzzle.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 22 points with five assists and five rebounds. He also committed five turnovers in 29 minutes.

He has now recorded at least 20 points in 132 straight games. That streak is the longest active run in NBA history.

Bench spark and McCain’s return

Jared McCain returned to Philadelphia after being traded on Feb. 4. He added 13 points and two assists off the bench in 25 minutes.

McCain shot 5-for-11 from the field and 3-for-7 from three-point range. He shared a playful moment with former teammate Andre Drummond after a corner triple.

76ers absences and Edgecombe’s breakout

Philadelphia was shorthanded for the game. Joel Embiid (right oblique), Tyrese Maxey (right finger tendon) and Paul George (suspension) all missed the contest.

Rookie VJ Edgecombe led the 76ers with 35 points. He hit a career-high seven three-pointers on 15 attempts.

Injuries, suspensions and next steps

OKC was without Ajay Mitchell, Payton Sandfort, Thomas Sorber and Nikola Topić. Mitchell’s one-game suspension has been served.

The Thunder will travel to Boston to face the Celtics on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. CT. Oklahoma City aims to keep building momentum as players return.

Jalen Williams’ comeback helped the OKC Thunder secure a convincing victory over a depleted 76ers roster. The team now prepares for a tough road test in Boston.