3 unsung heroes who helped the OKC Thunder claim historic No. 1 seed

Jaylin Williams

For most casual fans, Jaylin Williams is just another guy named that way on the OKC Thunder roster. Little did they know that J-Will holds one of the most crucial positions on the entire roster. 

After being a regular starter in his rookie year, the now-sophomore big has been the primary backup center for the team, something they've been in need of throughout the season. 

Williams came off the bench regularly behind center Chet Holmgren, but still managed to make most of his minutes in the novel role, posting averages of 4.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. 

Williams plays as a post hub on the Thunder’s offense while providing the heft the team needs against teams with sturdier frontlines. He was the team's go-to guy to body up opposing centers like Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid when head coach Mark Daigneualt opted to have Holmgren roam around the paint. 

Beyond his defense, Williams has also shot 36.8 percent from the beyond three-point line, forcing defenses to respect him as an outside threat. His energy throughout the regular season was top-notch as he injected the team with a vibe that was unlike any other squad in the entire league. 

While Williams plays behind the stars, his contributions will always be pivotal to the Thunder’s success.