Thunder injuries will sideline starters Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace indefinitely as both prepare for surgery, Oklahoma City general manager Sam Presti said on October 26, 2026. The team will determine their return timetables after the operations.

Key Takeaways

  • Williams fractured his fibula and dislocated his left ankle; Wallace tore the labrum in his left shoulder.
  • Both players were hurt in Sunday’s victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.
  • Presti said he was optimistic about their recoveries but had not given much thought to potential deals.

Thunder injuries leave two starters without return dates

Williams landed awkwardly with 74 seconds left in the game and was carried off on a stretcher. Wallace was injured in the first quarter after running into a moving screen.

Both players could miss the rest of the NBA season based on similar past injuries, though the team has not set return dates. Presti said he was “extremely optimistic” about both players’ recoveries.

Oklahoma City faces a challenge after 3-0 start

The Thunder began the season 3-0. Williams averaged 13.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, while Wallace averaged 6.3 points and 2.3 steals.

Williams signed a five-year, $239 million contract extension last year. Wallace signed a five-year, $139 million extension the week before his injury.

Asked about potential deals, Presti said he had not given them much thought and was focused on supporting the players and the team.

Next milestone

The next confirmed step is surgery for both players, after which the team expects to determine their return timetables.

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