The Oklahoma City Thunder face a critical decision as they prepare for the upcoming season: who should be their clear second scoring option behind star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander? After a disappointing end to the 2025-26 campaign, including a 103-111 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on May 31 and a recent form slump of one win in their last five games, the Thunder need answers fast.
Who has the edge: Holmgren or Williams?
Chet Holmgren brings a rare two-way skillset that few seven-footers possess. The 23-year-old can protect the rim, stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, and score efficiently in the paint. When engaged, he's a matchup nightmare, but his offensive aggression has been inconsistent at times. Last season, Holmgren averaged 16.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting 45% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc.
Jalen Williams, on the other hand, is a dynamic playmaker who thrives with the ball in his hands. The 24-year-old guard can create his own shot, get to the rim, and facilitate for teammates. Williams stepped up in Gilgeous-Alexander's absence last season, averaging 19.5 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game. His ability to handle a larger offensive load makes him a strong candidate for the No. 2 role.
Why clarity matters for playoff success
The Thunder's playoff aspirations hinge on establishing a clear pecking order behind Gilgeous-Alexander. In tight games, the team needs to know who will take the big shot, who will be the primary creator, and who will exploit mismatches. Without this clarity, the Thunder risk repeating their recent struggles, including their four-game losing streak.
What comes next for the Thunder?
The good news is that Oklahoma City doesn't have to rush this decision. Both Holmgren and Williams are still young and developing. The Thunder can let them compete for the role and see who emerges as the more consistent performer. However, as the season progresses, the team must be willing to recognize and reward the player who separates themselves.
For now, the Thunder can focus on getting back on track. Their next game is a crucial matchup against the Denver Nuggets, and you can check our [fixtures](/fixtures) page for more details. With Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way and either Holmgren or Williams stepping up as the clear second option, the Thunder have the potential to make a deep playoff run.
