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Jalen Williams Sparks Thunder to 119-110 Win Over Lakers on Return from Injury

Isaiah Hartenstein trying to stop Jarred Vanderbilt from scoring

Key Takeaways:

  • Jalen Williams registered 23 points on his first appearance after a 10-game injury layoff, netting 15 in the second half
  • Oklahoma City overcame Los Angeles 119-110, breaking their two-game losing streak
  • Both Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic were absent through injury, with their sides combining for 52 free throw attempts

Match Analysis

Jalen Williams made an impactful return for the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena, tallying 23 points, including a crucial 15 in the second half. Williams, sidelined for the previous 10 matches by a hamstring strain, influenced proceedings decisively as his team overcame the Los Angeles Lakers 119-110. This win halted the Thunder’s two-game losing run.

With both reigning league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and NBA scoring leader Luka Doncic sidelined by injuries, Monday night’s clash was shaped by a physical approach from both teams. This was evident in the 52 free throws attempted in total. In the Lakers’ camp, LeBron James produced 22 points, 14 of which came after half-time, but the hosts saw their three-game winning sequence ended by another less-than-stellar defensive outing.

Key Player Contributions

Jalen Williams, whose absence spanned 10 games, was instrumental down the stretch, hitting key jump shots alongside Jaylin Williams. Chet Holmgren contributed a vital put-back dunk with 1:17 left, helping to secure victory for the NBA-leading Thunder, who had previously lost three of their last five.

From the bench, Isaiah Joe posted 19 points, while Alex Caruso supplied 17 for Oklahoma City. Holmgren completed a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. For the Lakers, Marcus Smart finished with 19 points and Austin Reaves added 16, despite playing with restricted minutes. Los Angeles now hold a 14-9 home record.

Debut Watch and Injury Updates

Recent acquisition Jared McCain, in only his second appearance since joining Oklahoma City by way of trade from Philadelphia last week, opened his account with baskets on his first two possessions and concluded with seven points.

The Thunder were again without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is sidelined by an abdominal injury through the upcoming All-Star Game in Inglewood, California. The Lakers, meanwhile, continue to assess Luka Doncic’s recovery from a mild hamstring strain which forced him to miss a second consecutive fixture.

TeamTop ScorerTotal Points
Oklahoma City ThunderJalen Williams – 23119
Los Angeles LakersLeBron James – 22110

Looking Ahead

  • The Thunder will visit Phoenix on Wednesday
  • The Lakers are set to host San Antonio on Wednesday

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