Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander playing tonight vs the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the Oklahoma City Thunder star's injury report (January 23, 2026)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to play Friday night when the Oklahoma City Thunder host the Indiana Pacers on January 23, 2026. He is not listed on the injury report and is projected to be fully available despite Oklahoma City dealing with multiple lineup issues.The game comes one night after the Thunder’s 122-102 win over the Milwaukee Bucks at home. That result pushed OKC further into the top tier of the Western Conference and set up a quick turnaround at Paycom Center.Oklahoma City Thunder are heavily favored heading into the game, with projections giving them an 87-88% chance to win. Much of that confidence comes from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s recent form. Against Milwaukee, he finished with 40 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds, carrying the offense while several rotation players were unavailable.Jalen Williams missed the game with a back issue, and Isaiah Hartenstein remained out with a calf injury. Despite that, the Thunder never lost control. Gilgeous-Alexander set the tone early and maintained it through the third quarter, allowing OKC to manage the game comfortably down the stretch.That performance fits a larger pattern. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 31.8 points per game on 54.7% shooting this season and has already been named a 2026 All-Star starter. There are no injury concerns entering Friday, and projections place him around 30 points, five rebounds, and six assists.Indiana has struggled at times to contain elite guards, and this matchup brings added context. Gilgeous-Alexander has already posted a career-high 55 points against the Pacers in a previous meeting. With the Thunder defending their title, the offense remains centered around him in key moments.The OKC Thunder remain short-handed, with Alex Caruso also sidelined due to a groin injury. In the Bucks win, Ajay Mitchell and Kenrich Williams each scored 18 points, helping stabilize the rotation. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to be joined by Chet Holmgren, who is projected for 19 points and nine rebounds.Indiana Pacers will look to Pascal Siakam for scoring, with his projection set at 22 points. Even so, Oklahoma City’s home record and recent run seven wins in their last eight games keep the Thunder firmly in control.A win would extend Oklahoma City’s momentum and strengthen its hold near on the conference race. For Indiana, it’s a test against the league’s standard. For the Thunder, it’s another night where their best player is available and expected to lead.