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The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without one of their key playmakers for Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers, as star guard Jalen Williams has officially been ruled out due to a left hamstring strain.

Williams suffered the injury during Game 2 of Oklahoma City’s first-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns. The injury occurred with 6:26 remaining in the third quarter when he landed awkwardly following a contested fast-break layup attempt. The Thunder later confirmed it as a Grade 1 left hamstring strain.

His absence is a significant setback for Oklahoma City heading into a high-stakes semifinal showdown.

Despite battling injuries throughout the season, Williams remained one of the Thunder’s most reliable two-way contributors, averaging 17.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists during the regular season.

He had elevated his play in the postseason as well, posting 20.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists while shooting an efficient 61.5 percent from the field through his first two playoff appearances.

With Williams sidelined, even more offensive responsibility will fall on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the Thunder open their series against Los Angeles.