The OKC Thunder have rarely seen themselves playing without MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the lineup this season, as he's been a relative picture of health on a team that's been regularly ravaged by injuries.
However, the 26-year-old was held out with a shin ailment heading into their recent matchup against the Phoenix Suns, which, as a result, designated his co-star, Jalen Williams, as the primary option on offense for Oklahoma City.
Despite his star status in the league, perhaps one of the biggest criticisms about both the forward and this team as a whole in 2024-25 is that they fall flat in the scoring department when playing without SGA and relying on Williams, going from averaging 123.9 points per 100 possessions with him on the floor to just 110.4 points with just J-Dub.
Though there may still be reasons for concern when it comes to such lineup configurations, as the Thunder are far from the title favorites that they currently project as without their superstar guard in the mix, following Wednesday night's performance, it appears that the third-year pro may have done enough to silence some of the most outspoken critics with his individual outburst.
Jalen Williams steps up big for Thunder without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Tasked as the primary ball handler and offensive initiator, Williams put forth one of his finest efforts on the season against the Suns, as he poured in 33 points on a highly efficient 56.5 percent shooting from the field.
However, what was arguably most impressive about his play was his impact in the distribution department, as he registered 5 assists and had several others taken away from him due to missed shots from teammates.
Throughout the year, Jalen Williams has proven himself to be a jack-of-all-trades type of talent for this Thunder team.
However, despite his versatility, two of the biggest questions concerning him have been whether he can serve as the ideal second option on a championship team and if he has the ability to step up in times of need when SGA is taken out of the equation due to injury, coaching decision, or a stiffling opposing defense.
During last year's ill-fated two-round playoff run, it was evident that he wasn't able to answer the call.
Now, after his stat-sheet stuffing showing that spearheaded the charge to a 125-112 win over the Suns (on top of his points and assists, he also pulled down 7 rebounds and swiped 3 steals), confidence in his capability of rising to the occasion is likely on the rise, especially with the postseason just over a week away.