How Chet Holmgren's return can change the Thunder's game

Diego Jiménez Rubio | Sat, 02/08/2025 - 16:02

Chet Holmgren, influence on the Thunder. Photo: gettyimages

Chet Holmgren has been out of competition for over three months, leaving the NBA without its showman on both sides of the court. Despite the Oklahoma City Thunder managing his absence well, the return of one of the great unicorns of the competition generates excitement and raises tactical questions to be resolved.

There are few players more impactful in the NBA without being the primary star of their team like Chet Holmgren is for these Oklahoma City Thunder. Injuries have hindered the progress of a man who defies logic with his agility, coordination, and wingspan, capable of doing absolutely everything on the court. With his return, the Thunder complete their luxury starting five with a double interior post alongside Hartenstein, which will require effort from both to adapt.

Thunder fans are REAL happy to see Chet Holmgren back. pic.twitter.com/9aWVntL5dk
— Brandon Rahbar (@BrandonRahbar) February 8, 2025

Gone are the times when two towers couldn't play together, especially because Holmgren's physical characteristics give the team a much faster pace than any other center. They have an inspiring example for their partnership to work as seen with the Cavs, where Allen and Mobley are showing an impressive connection, dominating the paint on both defense and offense.

- Five of the Thunder's nine losses have come without Holmgren or Hartenstein in the team

It is no coincidence that five of the nine losses they have suffered have occurred in games where neither of the two centers was present, highlighting their importance in the Oklahoma City Thunder lineup. It will be interesting to see if they don't spatially hinder each other on the court, as well as if the team's coach decides to play both in crucial moments. If this interior duo works, the Thunder will be truly unstoppable.

"Chet Holmgren is going to be the X factor on why the Oklahoma City Thunder is gonna be in the NBA Finals this year."@KendrickPerkins is confident that Holmgren's return will be a game-changer for the Thunder 👀 pic.twitter.com/hkAEsCXmRt
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 8, 2025