The Oklahoma City Thunder travel to San Antonio for Game 3 of the Western Conference finals with the series tied 1-1 and All-NBA wing Jalen Williams listed as day-to-day because of a left hamstring strain. Williams is officially questionable for Friday’s contest.
Williams’ availability remains in doubt
Head coach Mark Daigneault has not ruled the third-year forward in or out. The club has experience playing without him, having navigated several stretches this season while he battled injuries.
“Obviously if we don’t have him it hurts,” guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said. “We’ve won big games without him, and I still believe we can get the job done.”
Oklahoma City’s optimism is buoyed by San Antonio’s own injury concerns. Both DeAaron Fox and rookie guard Dylan Harper are questionable for Game 3, creating additional uncertainty for the Spurs’ backcourt rotation.
McCain embraces a blue-collar role
Rookie guard Jared McCain, best known for long-range shooting and social-media flair, said he is focused on hustle plays to stay on the floor. “Shots not falling, I want to stay on the court no matter what,” McCain told The Oklahoman. In 26 minutes during Game 2, he recorded four offensive rebounds, three assists and two steals while shooting 4-for-14.
Deep bench stays ready
The Thunder second unit—featuring Cason Wallace, Ajay Mitchell and veteran Alex Caruso—has been a consistent source of energy. “One through 15, everyone is always ready,” Mitchell said. Caruso, a two-time NBA champion, added, “If you’re not fearless, you’re probably going to lose and go home.”
Presti’s culture pitch pays dividends
General manager Sam Presti targeted center Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency with the largest contract in franchise history, selling him on culture rather than minutes or role. After a 2024 second-round exit, Presti also acquired Caruso, prioritizing team chemistry over star chasing. “Sam has passed on talents to get human beings,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. Hartenstein and Caruso proved pivotal in last year’s title run and have continued to deliver timely shots and physical defense this postseason.
The Thunder and Spurs tip off Game 3 on Friday night at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.
Source: Hoops Rumors
