Why Jalen Williams isn't playing tonight for Thunder, and how close he is to injury return

The Oklahoma City Thunder struggled in Game 4 against the San Antonio Spurs.

News isn't great heading into Game 5 back in OKC, either. Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell still won't be playing.

Williams was the guy who seemed like he might have a chance to play.

About 45 minutes before tip-off, though, it was announced that Williams would remain out.

MORE: Bronny James' golf swing makes his dad look bad

Why isn't Jalen Williams playing tonight?

Williams remains out due to injury.

After a nagging hamstring injury during the season, he was hurt earlier this series and hasn't played since.

MORE: Mavs' Jalen Brunson mistake joins constant Luka Doncic narrative

When is Jalen Williams coming back?

There's no way to know for sure about Williams' return, but the signs are positive.

He went through a relatively normal warmup on the court during pregame activities on Tuesday night.

That could mean he'll have a chance at a Game 6 return back in San Antonio.

And it certainly seems like Williams will be ready to rock by the NBA Finals, if the Thunder get there. He'd be a big help at getting them there in the first place if he can make it back on the floor before then.

More NBA news:

• James Harden might be delusional
• Bobby Marks sees 5 possible outcomes for LeBron James
• Heat, Norman Powell can impact the Giannis trade picture
• CJ McCollum heads for interesting free agency
• Timberwolves can't afford to lose this talented free agent