The Oklahoma City Thunder vs Sacramento Kings this Tuesday. Unfortunately, they’ll do so without their mutual frick-tag, star freshman Chet Holmgren, who is injured with back tightness. With that, Holmgren is set to miss his first game of the season. At the same time, the Thunder would like to prevent them from moving to 5-0.
Holmgren is having an enormous impact on the Thunder’s surprising success during this young season. He’s averaging 23.0 points and 10.3 rebounds per game! In the team’s recent victory against the Dallas Mavericks, he contributed 18 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks in just 32 minutes of play. Jones’ performance has been vital for Oklahoma City as they look to gain some traction in the log-jammed Western Conference.
Holmgren’s absence will be felt even more as the Thunder will be without guard Isaiah Joe. Now, he’s out due to a knee injury. Joe’s contributions off the bench have been very valuable, so it is definitely being felt with his absence in the lineup. Further complicating the situation, Jalen Williams is still in the process of recovering from offseason wrist surgery and has yet to suit up this season. His return will be no small matter for the Thunder as they continue to work through injuries to numerous key players.
Alex Caruso, who was placed in concussion protocol last week, has not been listed on the injury report, indicating his potential return to action for the Kings matchup. Owing to Holmgren’s absence, the Thunder will have to tweak the game plan going into this one.
The Thunder’s management remains optimistic about Holmgren’s condition and his ability to bounce back quickly. The organization is in the midst of monitoring his recovery to safely bring him back to full strength while avoiding any re-aggravation. Jon’s team is getting ready for their big season opening matchup against the Kings. They will need to lean on other guys to fill the void while Holmgren is gone.
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