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As the Oklahoma City Thunder continue their impressive run through the early season, the team shifts its focus to a Monday night showdown against the struggling New Orleans Pelicans. Entering the matchup with a league-best 13-1 record, the Thunder remain one of the NBA’s hottest teams, fueled by dominant performances and exceptional consistency. However, their latest injury report presents a series of challenges that could impact their rotation.
Thunder aim to extend dominant start
Oklahoma City is coming off another strong outing, securing a road win over the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again set the tone, delivering 33 points, four rebounds, and seven assists. Chet Holmgren added 25 points and eight rebounds, showcasing the balance and firepower that have defined the Thunder’s early campaign.
As OKC attempts to secure its 14th victory, the biggest obstacle may not be the Pelicans—who enter the night at 2-11—but their own injury-ridden roster.
Jalen Williams remains out
Star forward Jalen Williams will continue to sit on the sidelines. The Thunder have officially ruled him out for Monday’s contest as he remains in recovery from offseason wrist surgery. Williams has yet to make his season debut, and while the team has managed to thrive without him, his absence remains significant.
Williams’ versatility, scoring, and defensive impact were central to Oklahoma City’s rise last season, and his return will be a pivotal moment for the franchise moving forward.
Alex Caruso listed as questionable
Another key rotational piece, Alex Caruso, enters the matchup with uncertainty surrounding his availability. Caruso is listed as questionable due to right-hand soreness, an injury that forced him to exit Saturday’s game early.
Should he miss Monday’s contest, the Thunder will likely lean on Isaiah Joe and Ajay Mitchell to absorb additional minutes and defensive assignments. Caruso’s presence has brought needed veteran steadiness, making his status an important storyline ahead of tip-off.
Additional absences impacting depth
The injury list extends beyond Williams and Caruso. Aaron Wiggins, Kenrich Williams, Nikola Topic, and Thomas Sorber have all been ruled out for the matchup. While Oklahoma City’s depth has helped them navigate injuries effectively, the number of sidelined players will test the team’s rotational flexibility once again.
Despite the setbacks, the Thunder remain poised and confident as they look to continue their winning ways.
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