The Oklahoma City Thunder received a major boost with the announcement that Chet Holmgren will return to the lineup on Friday against the Toronto Raptors. This news comes as a pleasant surprise, as Holmgren’s recovery from a hip fracture in November has progressed faster than initially expected.
Holmgren’s return before the All-Star break is a testament to his dedication and the organization’s rehabilitation process. With five games remaining before the break, the timing couldn’t be better. This stretch will allow the team to assess Holmgren’s performance and integration with the squad before a mini-training camp during the All-Star break.
Several questions surround Holmgren’s return. Will he be on a minutes restriction? Will he play in back-to-back games? How will he fit into the starting lineup? The most likely scenario sees Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins, Josh Giddey, and Holmgren as the starting five, prioritizing Holmgren’s comfort in his first game back.
The key aspect to watch will be how Coach Mark Daigneault staggers Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. Their playing time distribution, especially alongside Gilgeous-Alexander and Giddey, will be crucial in maximizing the team’s potential.
On the roster front, the Thunder made several moves on trade deadline day. They waived Daniel Tice, as expected, and converted AJ Mitchell’s two-way contract to a standard NBA deal. Mitchell’s two-year, $6 million contract solidifies his place in the Thunder’s future plans, despite his current injury.
Brandon Carlson signed his fourth contract with the Thunder this season, filling the open two-way slot left by Mitchell. While not playoff-eligible, Carlson provides valuable depth and can contribute in various scenarios, including potential load management for Holmgren.
The Thunder’s decision to stand pat at the trade deadline, particularly by not pursuing Cam Johnson, demonstrates confidence in the current roster. This continuity allows the team to build on their impressive 40-9 record and gives role players like Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe another opportunity to prove themselves in high-pressure situations.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Thunder’s roster moves and playoff preparations, tune into the Locked On Thunder podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Thunder Podcast:
• NBA All-Star Draft results and implications
• Trade deadline aftermath across the league
• Thunder’s schedule and upcoming matchups
