Northwest Roundup: Jalen Williams Rehab, Presti’s Philosophy, Wolves Team Dinner, Cody Williams Sent Down
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Oklahoma City, Okla. — Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault said Friday that forward Jalen Williams remains without a firm return date after undergoing surgery on his left thumb, but noted the third-year standout is progressing well in daily rehabilitation work.
“He’s day-to-day, and he’s doing a great job,” Daigneault told reporters before Oklahoma City’s matchup with Minnesota. The coach arrived at the practice facility at 8:15 a.m. Wednesday and found Williams already engaged in physical therapy ahead of an on-court session. Daigneault praised Williams’ commitment, adding that rookies Thomas Sorber and Nikola Topić, along with second-year center Chet Holmgren, have shown similar dedication during their own rehab periods.
Williams, an All-NBA Third Team and All-Defensive Second Team selection last season, has missed too many games to qualify for postseason awards this year. Even so, the Thunder entered Friday night with a league-best 17-1 record.
Presti draws inspiration from historian Robert Caro
General manager Sam Presti told ESPN’s Baxter Holmes he models his roster-building approach on author Robert Caro’s exhaustive research methods. “You have to turn every single page,” Presti said, explaining that the Thunder explore every possible roster scenario “to ensure we’re not closing off pathways that could elevate us now or in the future.” Presti is currently reading Caro’s chronicle of Lyndon Johnson’s Senate tenure.
Conley organizes Wolves team dinner
After late-game slips against the Timberwolves and Suns, Minnesota guard Mike Conley hosted a team dinner Tuesday to address lingering issues, according to The Athletic. Forward Julius Randle called the gathering “not optional,” emphasizing the importance of full participation.
Jazz assign rookie Cody Williams to G League
The Jazz have sent 2024 first-round pick Cody Williams to their G League affiliate in Salt Lake City. The 19-year-old wing had seen his minutes decline in recent outings and played only three minutes Sunday before the move.
Source: Hoops Rumors
