Predicting the 10 NBA stars who will still be dominant in five years

9) Jalen Williams

Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder is the NBA's best-kept secret. While Shai and Chet Holmgreen receive the majority of the attention when it comes to the Thunder, Williams has been an invaluable piece in their dramatic turnaround.

Williams was relatively unknown before being drafted 12th overall by the Thunder in 2022. He rode a strong second half during his rookie campaign to ultimately finish 2nd in ROY voting, and he has taken a major step forward this year.

While his counting stats are strong (19.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg, and 4.6 apg), it is his efficiency that really separates him from his peers. Williams is shooting an absurd 54.4% from the floor and an even more ridiculous 45.3% from three. His 3-point percentage is up nearly 10% from his rookie season.

In terms of true shooting percentage, which is a stat designed to measure a player's overall shooting efficiency, Williams is already ranked as the 7th most efficient shooter among all guards in the NBA.
Williams is also regarded as a strong, versatile defender. At just 22 years old, he is already one of the league's most efficient and dependable players.

If he is able to take a step forward as a playmaker in the coming years, there is no telling how good of a player he may become. While Shai and Chet are spectacular, unique talents in their own right, don't be surprised if Jalen Williams is ultimately viewed as the crown jewel of this Thunder rebuild.