Oklahoma City’s rising star, Jalen Williams, has made headlines for his offensive output since Chet Holmgren went down with an injury. The Thunder needed the re

Jalen Williams, the off-ball player who the Thunder gravely need these days with Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein injured, was a star.

Dub,”, has taken on an unusual role for the Oklahoma City Thunder this season. He’s playing extensive minutes at center despite his stature as a 6-foot-6 guard/forward.

While Holmgren was out to an All-Star-caliber start, his absence provides an opportunity for Jalen Williams to take an All-Star leap. Williams has shown flashes of stardom throughout his career, and his growth was a significant piece of Oklahoma City’s 57-win campaign last season.

The Thunder hope starting Jalen Williams at center will be sustainable while their rotation bigs mend from injuries.

Jalen Williams scored 31 points, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 29 points and the Oklahoma City Thunder rolled to a 106-88 win against the New Orleans Pelicans.

Jalen Williams gets up for not one, but two big swats to deny the Pelicans for the Thunder.