OKC Thunder Lose Jalen Williams To Second Wrist Surgery

Jalen Williams was one of the key contributors in the Oklahoma City Thunder's run to the NBA title last year. He has yet to play this season, however, after undergoing offseason wrist surgery. Now his recovery has been pushed back by yet another procedure on the wrist to remove a screw.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams underwent a follow-up procedure on his right wrist to remove a screw that was creating irritation during the final stages of his return to play process, team says. Williams will be re-evaluated in 10-14 days.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) October 31, 2025

Williams was close to returning before the irritation from the screw forced him back into the operating room. He might say he... had a screw loose.

He'll be re-evaluated in 10 days to two weeks, the team says.

Williams had played with a torn ligament in his wrist during the Thunder's postseason championship run. He had the original surgery on it in July.

He averaged 21.6 points per game, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.6 steals last season, and was named to his first All-Star Game, while getting the nod as a Third Team All-NBA selection, and a Second Team All-Defensive Team member.

In July, Williams agreed to a five-year maximum rookie extension that could be worth up to $287 million.

In the meantime, the Thunder will have to make do with their No. 2 scoring option for several more games. So far, it hasn't been a problem, as OKC is off to a 6-0 start despite his absence.