The Oklahoma City Thunder are already the NBA’s best team this season, boasting a league-leading 40-9 record. But their most significant roster addition ahead of the trade deadline isn’t coming from a blockbuster deal—it’s the return of star center/power forward Chet Holmgren.
After missing 39 games due to a fractured pelvis, Holmgren has been cleared to play in Friday night’s home game against the Toronto Raptors. His return is set to have a massive impact on a Thunder team that has thrived despite his absence. With Holmgren back in the lineup, OKC is not just looking to maintain its dominance, but also solidify itself as a legitimate championship contender.
Holmgren’s Immediate Impact
Holmgren was off to a phenomenal start before suffering a right iliac wing fracture on Nov. 10 against the Golden State Warriors. In just nine games, he averaged 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks while helping the Thunder to an 8-1 record. His elite rim protection, floor-spacing ability, and unique skill set for a 7-footer were key factors in Oklahoma City’s early success.
Now, with his return, the Thunder gain back a dynamic presence on both ends of the floor. Holmgren’s ability to stretch the floor as a 37% career 3-point shooter makes him a unique weapon in the frontcourt, and his defensive versatility will be crucial for OKC as they prepare for the postseason.
A Potentially Dominant Frontcourt Duo
One of the most intriguing aspects of Holmgren’s return is how he will fit alongside Isaiah Hartenstein. The Thunder signed Hartenstein to a three-year, $87 million contract in the offseason, but due to Holmgren’s injury, the two have yet to share the court together this season.
Head coach Mark Daigneault expressed excitement in the preseason about experimenting with different lineups featuring the two big men. While both are natural centers, Holmgren’s offensive skill set allows him to slide to power forward, providing OKC with a dynamic and lengthy frontcourt duo. Hartenstein’s physicality and rebounding presence complement Holmgren’s mobility and perimeter shooting, creating a combination that could pose serious problems for opponents.
Thunder’s Success Without Holmgren—And What His Return Means
Despite missing one of their most talented players, the Thunder have managed to dominate the league. OKC is an incredible 34-4 when either Holmgren or Hartenstein has been available for an entire game. However, when both were out, the team has struggled, going just 6-5—including the loss to Golden State when Holmgren was injured in the first half.
Holmgren’s return not only strengthens OKC’s rotation but also gives them more depth, allowing Daigneault to better manage matchups and rotations as the season progresses.
Holmgren’s Road to Recovery and Postseason Outlook
Holmgren’s injury was a setback, but his return couldn’t have come at a better time. With the final push towards the playoffs approaching, reintegrating him into the lineup will be crucial for building chemistry ahead of a deep postseason run. The Thunder may take a cautious approach with his minutes at first, but given his impact earlier in the season, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him return to form quickly.
His presence not only boosts OKC’s interior defense and rebounding but also provides another elite scoring option next to MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Holmgren’s versatility as a shot-blocker, playmaker, and scorer will be a nightmare for opposing teams trying to game plan against the Thunder.
A Challenge for the Raptors
Holmgren’s first game back comes against a Toronto Raptors team that is adjusting to a roster shakeup after the NBA Trade Deadline. The Raptors recently acquired Brandon Ingram but will be without Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk, who were traded as part of the deal. It’s also uncertain if Ingram will make his debut against the Thunder due to an ankle injury.
Toronto has also been battling injuries, with RJ Barrett dealing with a concussion and Jakob Poeltl suffering a hip injury on Feb. 4. Facing a fully-loaded Thunder team with Holmgren back in the mix will be a major test for the Raptors as they look to find their footing with a new-look lineup.
The Final Word
Holmgren’s return isn’t just good news for the Thunder—it’s a warning sign for the rest of the NBA. Oklahoma City has already proven it can dominate without him, and now they’re adding a 7-footer who can score, defend, and facilitate at a high level. His return strengthens an already elite squad, making the Thunder an even more dangerous force heading into the postseason.
With Holmgren and Hartenstein finally sharing the court, the Thunder’s frontcourt has the potential to be one of the most formidable in the league. And with OKC already sitting atop the NBA standings, his return could be the final piece that cements their status as true championship contenders.
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