If the Thunder even the series 1-1, Williams will likely play a big part. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort did enough to secure a Game 1 win, but the rest of the starters struggled. For the 24-year-old, that was 17 points on 6-of-19 shooting.

They have carved out huge roles on our team — they are a huge reason why we're here,” Daigneault said. “They are in an uncommon position."