OKC Thunder Forced to Shuffle Starting Lineup vs. Portland Trail Blazers
Oklahoma City has begun the season 8-0, marking the best start in franchise history. The Thunder’s strong performance comes despite dealing with significant injury challenges.
Throughout this early stretch, Oklahoma City has yet to play a game with its full roster available. All-NBA forward Jalen Williams has not yet appeared this season, while veteran big man Kenrich Williams and rookie guard Nikola Topic have also missed the first eight contests.
Injury Challenges Continue
As they prepare to face the Portland Trail Blazers on the second night of a back-to-back, the Thunder will again be without multiple key players. Chet Holmgren, Alex Caruso, and Lu Dort are all sidelined for tonight’s game.
- Holmgren is out with a lower back strain, his fourth missed game this year.
- Caruso will sit out for rest, also his fourth absence of the season.
- Dort, who exited Tuesday's win over the L.A. Clippers due to a shoulder injury while contesting a screen from Ivica Zubac, is sidelined with a right upper trapezius strain.
Impact on Team Rotation
These absences leave head coach Mark Daigneault without three regular starters for Wednesday’s matchup. Despite the injuries, Oklahoma City continues to showcase resilience and depth early in the campaign.
"This puts three staple starters for Mark Daigneault's club on the injury report for tonight's contest against Portland."
Author’s Summary
Despite missing several key players, the 8-0 Thunder demonstrate depth and composure as they face Portland amid ongoing injury setbacks.