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: either shrink to the occasion or drown for the next several weeks.

This is a devastating development. The Thunder looked prime to win 60-plus games this season. A historic defense was anchored by Holmgren, who was speeding his way to his first All-Star berth this year. Now, that's all stopped to a sudden halt.

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