The OKC Thunder announced that forward Kenrich Williams will have an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee Monday, Sept. 29.
Further updates, including an expected timeline, will be provided following the procedure.
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Williams averaged 6.3 points and 3.5 rebounds in 69 games with OKC last season, but the stats don’t reflect his full impact. The 30-year-old forward embodies Thunder basketball with his unselfish play, and he’s a mentor to his younger teammates.
Arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure. But if Williams were to miss time this upcoming season, his absence could be felt at the five. The Thunder will be without rookie center Thomas Sorber for the entire campaign after he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee during a workout on Sept. 4.
OKC still has another backup center option in Jaylin Williams, who signed a three-year, $24 million contract extension this offseason. It also brought 7-foot center Branden Carlson back on another two-way contract, and Jalen Williams can play the five if needed.
OKC will begin preseason play Sunday with a game against the Charlotte Hornets in Charleston, South Carolina. That’ll mark the first of six preseason games.
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OKC will then tip off the regular season with a home game against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 21. It’ll also be ring night for the reigning champion Thunder.
Justin Martinez covers sports for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Justin? He can be reached at jmartinez@oklahoman.com or on X/Twitter at @Justintohoops. Sign up for the Thunder Sports Minute newsletter to access more NBA coverage. Support Justin’s work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Kenrich Williams injury update: Thunder forward to have knee surgery