OKC Thunder: 3 takeaways in OT loss to the Lakers

OKC Thunder takeaway No. 3) Is Williams the next Thunder star?

Chances come and go for players, and after a year or two, it’s easy to see who still has the potential to become a star for the OKC Thunder and whose time has run out.

Williams is making the best of the time he is given and turning into a stud before our eyes.

In his third year in the league, Williams’ best scoring season came in his first, where he averaged 6.1 points per game for the New Orleans Pelicans. For the Thunder, he’s currently averaging 5.6.

But that’s likely to change if Williams continues to play at the level he has since February began.

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Over the last five games, Williams has averaged 13.8 points per game, and he’s done so while shooting nearly 60 percent from the field. He’s become an important part of the Thunder roster, even after having a fairly quiet December and January.

Williams has done his part. He has stepped in and stepped up when the team has needed him to due to injuries. He is smart about his shot selection, he’s a solid defender and he’s crafty, which is everything the Thunder need in a player.

Williams is likely to see his minutes remain elevated. The Thunder are better with him on the court, and right now, the Thunder need good shooters who can create their own shot or set other teammates up for success.

Williams is good for this team, and by season end, I am willing to bet he will have earned the opportunity to continue playing with the OKC Thunder deep into his career.

The Thunder will be back in action on Saturday when they take on the Denver Nuggets in Denver at 8 p.m. CT.