The Oklahoma City Thunder player who has to confirm he is an NBA superstar

The 2025 Finals crowned Jalen Williams. His breakthrough was as dominant as it was surprising, and the fact that he played the entire postseason with a wrist injury revealed later added a special epic to his feat. The narrative of sacrifice further elevated him in the eyes of fans, but what truly matters is what is yet to come: a statistical and competitive leap that could redefine his place in the NBA.

The summer brought with it a wrist operation that left him out of action for weeks, but also the expectation of a stronger version of J-Dub. He is just entering his fourth season as a professional and, at 24 years old, is at that point where young stars typically explode. Furthermore, he is shielded by a five-year, $287 million extension, placing him as the clear second option behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Last season was already a warning: 21.6 points on average, his first time surpassing the 20-point mark. Although he played only 69 games, he reached career highs in scoring, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. His evolution parallels that of SGA, who in his fourth year was averaging close to 25 points before reaching 30 for three consecutive seasons.

From the Finals' feat to the challenge of consistency

What he did in the title series did not go unnoticed. He averaged 23.6 points, 5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists with a 43.3% field goal percentage, all while dealing with a torn ligament in his wrist before the playoffs even began. There were gray nights, especially in the semifinals against Denver, but his iconic Game 5 of the Finals, with 40 points, showed how far he can go when inspired.

Sam Presti, general manager of OKC, confirmed the injury later, immediately changing the interpretation of those performances: Williams not only played through pain but also chose to take the risk to not let the opportunity for a ring slip away. That gamble made him a champion and reinforced his image as a relentless competitor.

With a young core that includes Chet Holmgren and with Gilgeous-Alexander established as the absolute star, the Thunder have shown time and time again their ability to refine emerging talent. Williams is next on the list. The removal of his brace during the summer and a complete rehabilitation forecast a 2025/26 season with his best physical and mental version.

Everything points to him being one of the main protagonists in the Thunder's attempt to defend the championship. The combination of confidence, experience gained in the Finals, and physical peak sets the perfect stage for a new leap. J-Dub not only promises more numbers, he promises leadership and presence at the moment where championship teams distinguish themselves from those who only dream of it.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El jugador de Oklahoma City Thunder que tiene que confirmar que es una superestrella de la NBA