Oklahoma City Thunder
Forward Jalen Williams said he is “trending” toward a return from a left hamstring strain, noting on his YouTube channel that extra rest from the Thunder’s second-round sweep of the Lakers allowed him to avoid rushing back. “I’m actually taking extra days now because we were up 3-0. There was no point in risking it,” the 25-year-old explained.
Williams last played on April 22, when he was hurt in Game 2 against Phoenix. His season was limited to 33 games because of wrist surgery and multiple hamstring issues, yet he averaged 17.1 points, 5.5 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals. In the first two playoff games before the injury, he posted 20.5 points on 61.5 percent shooting.
Regardless of Williams’ status, rookie guard Ajay Mitchell has secured a role as a secondary ball-handler and is expected to see minutes in the Western Conference finals.
Portland Trail Blazers
Veteran guard Jrue Holiday, 35, said he hopes to return next season after Portland’s first-round exit against San Antonio. “I don’t like being traded. I like building something and going through it with a team. I’d love to be here,” Holiday told reporters.
Injuries and late turnovers affected his year, but league scouts still value his leadership, especially for young guard Scoot Henderson. One scout described Holiday’s contract as steep yet worthwhile for a rebuilding roster.
New York Knicks
Center Mitchell Robinson is set to reach unrestricted free agency, creating a pivotal offseason choice for New York. Teammate Miles McBride praised Robinson’s growth, saying, “When it’s time for him to show up, he shows up.”
Re-signing Robinson would strengthen the Knicks’ interior but could push the club into the second tax apron next season. The Sacramento Kings are viewed as an outside suitor, though significant salary moves would be required. Kings general manager Scott Perry was in the Knicks’ front office when Robinson was drafted in 2018.
Source: Hoops Wire
