Thunder rookie Jalen Williams posts photo of swollen eye on Instagram – The Rookie Wire
Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Jalen Williams posted a photo of his swollen right eye on Instagram after taking a hit to the face during his NBA debut versus the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The play happened at the 4:29 mark of the second quarter on Wednesday. He caught the left elbow of Jaden McDaniels as the Timberwolves forward was driving to the basket. Williams immediately hit the court in pain and stayed down for a few minutes to regroup.
Williams was eventually able to walk off of the court on his own power and was ruled out of returning by the team after just six minutes of work. He recorded five points and one assist with one 3-pointer before the injury happened.
His swollen eye can now be seen on Instagram.
Looks like Jalen Williams’ right eye is swollen shut pic.twitter.com/igGn952OoZ
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) October 20, 2022
The injury cut short what likely would have been a strong first game with the Thunder. He had a tremendous run in the preseason, averaging 14.4 points, 5.2 assists, three rebounds and 1.8 steals in five games. He led the rookie class in assists and was second in total scoring.
Williams could have hinted on Instagram that he will be able to play through the injury. He posted a photo to his story of Kobe Bryant playing in a face mask so he will likely have to wear a mask until the swelling goes down above his right eye if he is cleared to play.
The Thunder have not yet provided an official update on Williams’ status for Saturday against the Denver Nuggets but will likely do so on Friday at practice.
