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Thunder – 76ers: Jalen Williams Returns, Three Philadelphia Stars Absent

The Oklahoma City Thunder welcomes back Jalen Williams to face a 76ers team without Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey in tonight's clash in Philadelphia.
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Thunder – 76ers: Jalen Williams Returns, Three Philadelphia Stars Absent

Feb 9, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jalen Williams (8) goes to the basket against Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Photo Credit : © Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

The Oklahoma City Thunder traveled to Philadelphia with one thing in mind, securing a 12th consecutive victory against a significantly weakened 76ers team. The Thunder now possesses the longest winning streak in the league following the recent defeat of the Hawks. This impressive streak dates back to an overtime victory against Denver on February 27. Since then, the Thunder has strung together successes against the Knicks, Warriors, Nuggets (twice), Celtics, Timberwolves and most recently the Washington Wizards. This exceptional momentum arrives at the perfect moment, as the Spurs are closely pursuing Oklahoma City for first place in the Western Conference.

Jalen Williams’ Timely Return

The big news on the Oklahoma City side concerns the return of Jalen Williams, recovered from his hamstring injury. The former All-Star has only played 26 games this season, averaging 17.5 points, 5.4 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game.

Williams has been hampered by a wrist injury sustained during last season’s playoffs, then by two separate hamstring injuries. His return comes at the perfect time with only 11 regular season games remaining to regain competitive rhythm.

The Thunder will have to do without Ajay Mitchell, suspended one game by the league following an altercation that earned him an ejection during the game against the Wizards on Saturday, alongside Justin Champagnie.

Sixers Decimated by Injuries and Suspensions

The 76ers enter this matchup in a critical situation with the absence of their three main stars. Tyrese Maxey remains unavailable due to a finger tendon injury in his right hand sustained several weeks ago. Joel Embiid is suffering from a right oblique strain, while Paul George is serving a league suspension.

Philadelphia’s injury list also includes Dominick Barlow (questionable, left ankle sprain), Kelly Oubre Jr. (left elbow injury) and Johni Broome (recovering from right knee surgery).

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Nicolas Flamecourt
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
Thunder – 76ers: Jalen Williams Returns, Three Philadelphia Stars Absent