The Oklahoma City Thunder are facing significant challenges in their front court ahead of their season opener against the Denver Nuggets. Key players like Kenrich Williams and Jaylin Williams are sidelined due to injuries, while Isaiah Hartenstein will miss several weeks with a hand injury.

Additionally, Nikola Topic, the team's No. 12 draft pick, is out for the entire season due to an ACL injury. This leaves the Thunder with limited options, forcing coach Mark Daigneault to consider small ball lineups for the game.