Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell are set for re-evaluation in about a week following abdominal strains, NBA insider Michael Scotto reported on Thursday. Jalen Williams, dealing with a right hamstring strain, will be reassessed in roughly two weeks.
Gilgeous-Alexander, 27, has been the team’s scoring engine, averaging 31.8 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.4 rebounds over 49 games this season. Williams, a 24-year-old shooting guard, contributes 17.5 points and 4.7 rebounds per contest, while Mitchell averages 14.1 points and 3.5 rebounds across 43 games.
The Thunder, leading the Western Conference with a 42-14 record, face the Brooklyn Nets on Friday before a Sunday matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The timing of these evaluations could influence rotations for the remaining regular-season games and the early playoff seeding.
Oklahoma City has relied heavily on this trio, with Gilgeous-Alexander playing all 49 games and Williams and Mitchell providing critical scoring depth. Their absence could test the Thunder’s supporting cast, including Chet Holmgren, who is averaging 17.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game.
The team’s next seven games will determine playoff positioning, and managing player health is crucial with the postseason approaching. Re-evaluations will clarify whether the star backcourt can return to full strength before key matchups against top Western Conference contenders.
With Oklahoma City holding a 22-6 home record and 20-7 on the road, maintaining momentum is vital.
