Kofi Inkoom
The Oklahoma City Thunder are gearing up to face the Chicago Bulls in their season opener.
However, it’s unfortunate news as veteran forward Kenrich Williams is sidelined due to a back injury for the team’s first two games, as confirmed by head coach Mark Daigneault, according to Ryan Stiles.
Kenrich, an experienced forward, won’t be able to participate in both the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers matchups.
The duration of Williams’ absence remains uncertain, but the earliest possible return could occur on October 29, coinciding with a game against the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets.
Last season, Williams posted a defensive rating of 114.1, which, though marking his career’s worst, still stood out as one of the finest on the Oklahoma City roster. Additionally, in that very season, he held an average of 8.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.
Thunder will be counting on Williams’ defensive prowess and his ability to make 3-pointers as the season progresses, with the hope that his back injury will fully heal and he can return at his best.