Isaiah Joe Scores 20 in Thunder Debut

The Oklahoma City Thunder opened 5-0 but were severely short-handed and ranked last in 3-point percentage early in the 2025-26 season. Isaiah Joe missed the first five games with a left knee contusion, was cleared to play against the Washington Wizards, and in his season debut scored 20 points on 7-for-12 shooting (5-for-9 from three) with six rebounds and a +13 impact. Joe, who shot 41.2% from three last season and is a roughly 40% career marksman, provided immediate spacing and perimeter shooting relief for a depleted roster. His return should also ease some ball‑handling pressure while key players remain sidelined (including Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Kenrich Williams, lottery pick Nikola Topic and rookie Thomas Sorber).