Oklahoma City Thunder Maintain Perfect Start Despite Key Injuries

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — The Oklahoma City Thunder are off to a historic 8-0 start in the 2025-26 NBA season, despite facing significant challenges due to injuries. Key players, including All-NBA forward Jalen Williams, have yet to take the court this season, leaving the team shorthanded.

Alongside Williams, veteran big man Kenrich Williams and rookie guard Nikola Topic have also missed all eight games for the Thunder. The team will again be without rising star Chet Holmgren, who has a lower back strain, as well as defensive players Alex Caruso and Lu Dort for their game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night.

Caruso is resting after missing three games this season due to concussion protocol, while Dort is sidelined with a right upper trap strain, stemming from an injury he sustained in the previous game against the Los Angeles Clippers. Coach Mark Daigneault has had to adjust his strategy, starting Jaylin Williams in place of Holmgren to maintain a robust lineup.

Despite these setbacks, the Thunder have shown remarkable resilience. Oklahoma City’s defense ranks first in the league with a 104.2 defensive rating while holding a net rating of 13.1, which speaks to their ability to thrive even when their shooting struggles, ranking 28th in the league for three-point percentage.

Jaylin Williams has emerged as a crucial player, contributing not only on the offensive end but also improving his defense and rebounding. He recorded 12 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in a recent game against the New Orleans Pelicans, showcasing his potential.

As the Thunder prepare to face the Sacramento Kings and then travel to Memphis for a back-to-back, the team continues to persevere through their injury challenges. Fans are eager to see how the team performs as they aim to extend their unbeaten streak.