Jalen Williams Listed As Potential Breakout Star

Oklahoma City's talented wing Jalen Williams has all the tools to be a star in the NBA, and if the jump occurs this season, the Thunder could be special.

Oklahoma City’s young core is extremely impressive. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s meteoric rise to the MVP conversation, the Thunder seem to be a complementary star away from competing.

Of course, Oklahoma City could elect to trade for that piece in the near future with the treasure chest of draft capital and young prospects on the roster, but also, that rising star could already be on the roster. Josh Giddey and Chet Holmgren provide to necessities in ball handling and front court power, but Jalen Williams could be the swing factor.

He looked like a rising star during his rookie season, and if that stretch of play translates to the 2023-24 season, he could be a full-time star much sooner than expected.

A season ago, Williams averaged 14.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. His volume ramped up as the season wore on, starting 62 games and averaging 15.0 points on 52.1% shooting in those starts.

“Jalen Williams may not be the first name that pops up when thinking of the Oklahoma City Thunder, but he's got star potential written all over him as well,” Greg Swartz wrote.

“Now with some added offseason muscle, Williams looks like a point forward for a Thunder team that features a number of plus-size ball-handlers,” Swartz continued. “As long as he gets his shot attempts on an ever-improving OKC team, Williams has all the tools to be a star as early as this season.”

Williams' basketball IQ and ability to slash off of drives make him the perfect match for Gilgeous-Alexander. His two-way play is appealing too, with his long wingspan and defensive prowess. 

He already looks like a draft-day steal, and if he can turn into Oklahoma City's No. 2 scoring option his leap to stardom could be right around the corner. If he shines, the Thunder might not even have to make any blockbuster trades.

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