Chet Holmgren, the promising young star of the Oklahoma City Thunder, has made a significant return to the court following a challenging recovery period. Holmgren suffered a long-term hip fracture that sidelined him for most of the season. Now, he says, he’s a lot more laser-focused on how he can improve his game. He had just recently taken to the gym, action-movie hero style. After a ten-day-long party following his championship victory, he decided to rebuild targeted parts of his body while enhancing his general performance.
Holmgren’s ambition during this four-and-a-half-month offseason is clear: he aims to increase his strength by approximately 10%. This aspirational goal is a testament to his desire to not only rehabilitate from injury, but ascend to an even higher level as a player. He pushed himself back into the gym just ten days after partying and reveling in his big championship win. This extraordinary pledge is a testament to his prolific work ethic and drive to win.
Against the Chicago squad, Holmgren demonstrated his endurance and finesse in a dominating display. He scored 21 points, pulled down 16 rebounds, and blocked back two shots. This match only represents the fourth time he’s been able to show his skill since returning from injury this season.
Still, it hasn’t been a smooth road back to full strength for Holmgren. The important question is how much of a setback was his hip fracture. He used crutches for two weeks after a week-long hospital stay and three weeks of enforced bed rest. His resilience shone through as he returned for the Thunder’s title run after sitting out 39 games earlier in the season.
In a disappointing playoff run, Holmgren struggled, hitting just 29.7% from deep after being a prolific shooter. He factored mightily to the Thunder’s success in doing so. He went on to start all 23 playoff games, averaging 15.2 points per game in just under 30 minutes on the floor. His defensive impact was maybe the most impressive though, as he ranked second among all players with 43 blocks throughout the postseason.
Holmgren’s play this season has epitomized that statement. He’s on pace for a career-high 18.2 points per game so far this season. His 55.5% shooting percentage would be a career-best for him, further cementing his newfound efficiency. Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault says that Holmgren is now shooting a greater share of open looks than he was a year ago. This adjustment is a testament to Holmgren’s growing confidence and understanding of the game.
In mid-July, Holmgren ensured his long-term financial security with the Thunder by signing a five-year, $240.7 million contract extension. This move illustrates the franchise’s nearly unanimous conviction in his potential and talent. This commitment sheds light on Holmgren’s increasingly crucial role in the team’s long-term plans. It’s making way for what looks to be an exciting new era—for him and the franchise.
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