The two, in their own respective rights, were to birth the versatility of dreams. Twelve games in and without any traditional center or even Caruso — an unexpected understudy for the big-man group — the Thunder doesn’t have an option: shrink to the occasion or drown for the next several weeks.

Jalen Williams, the off-ball player who the Thunder gravely need these days with Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein injured, was a star.

Oklahoma City’s rising star, Jalen Williams, has made headlines for his offensive output since Chet Holmgren went down with an injury. The Thunder needed the rest of the team to step up, and Williams has been one of the biggest risers.