How Friday's 2026 NBA playoff results bought Jalen Williams more time

TL;DR

The Oklahoma City Thunder advanced to the second round of the NBA playoffs after defeating the Houston Rockets. Jalen Williams now has extra time to recover from his hamstring strain due to the scheduling of the next series against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Key points

Oklahoma City Thunder advanced to Round 2 of the NBA playoffs
Thunder defeated the Houston Rockets 98-78 in Game 6
Jalen Williams has more time to recover from a hamstring strain
Next game against the Los Angeles Lakers is on May 5
Thunder's schedule was affected by other playoff series results

Oklahoma City ThunderHouston RocketsLos Angeles LakersPhoenix Suns

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 25: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder sits on the bench during the second half in Game Three of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 25, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Thunder defeated the Suns 121-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

In the NBA playoffs, you live in a constant state of flummox for two-plus months. You can't make any plans from April to June because you have no idea where you're going to be. After the Oklahoma City Thunder completed a Round 1 sweep over the Phoenix Suns in Monday's Game 4 win, they now know when their next game will be.

The Thunder will host the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, May 5 for Game 1. They clinched their advancement with a 98-78 Game 6 win over the Houston Rockets. And thanks to Friday's other results, was given more time to recover from his hamstring strain.

Q&A

How did Jalen Williams benefit from the NBA playoff schedule changes?

Jalen Williams received additional recovery time for his hamstring strain because the Thunder's next playoff game was pushed to May 5 instead of May 3.

What was the outcome of the Thunder vs. Rockets playoff series?

The Oklahoma City Thunder won the series against the Houston Rockets, clinching it with a 98-78 victory in Game 6.

When will the Thunder play their next game in the NBA playoffs?

The Thunder will host the Los Angeles Lakers for Game 1 of the second round on Tuesday, May 5.