Chet Holmgren, the star player for the Oklahoma City Thunder, suffered a right hip injury during their recent game against the Golden State Warriors. The incident occurred when he tried to block an Andrew Wiggins drive and landed awkwardly midway through the first quarter. Holmgren fell hard on his right side and had to be helped off the court and into the locker room without putting any weight on his right leg.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault provided no specific updates on the extent of Holmgren’s injury or when he might return to the court. This injury is a significant blow to the team, as Holmgren has been a key player, averaging 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks in the first nine games of the season. The Thunder, with a record of 8-2, will have to adjust their lineup in his absence.
In addition to Holmgren’s injury, backup center Isaiah Hartenstein has also been out with a small nondisplaced fracture in his left hand. This leaves the Thunder with limited options in the frontcourt, forcing them to use smaller lineups against opponents like the Warriors.
Teammates of Holmgren, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, expressed their concern for his well-being and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt to his absence. Williams mentioned that they have faced similar challenges before and are prepared to take on the upcoming games without Holmgren.
The Thunder will face the LA Clippers in their next game, and it remains to be seen how they will adjust their game plan without their star player. The team will need to rely on their depth and versatility to make up for the absence of Holmgren and Hartenstein in the frontcourt. Fans will be eagerly waiting for updates on Holmgren’s condition and hoping for a speedy recovery so he can rejoin the team on the court.
