The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without their starting center, Chet Holmgren, for at least two months after the second-year player suffered a hip injury in a 127-116 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night.
Holmgren was injured midway through the first quarter after trying to challenge Andrew Wiggins’ drive to the basket. The two met in the air, and Wiggins scored while Holmgren crashed to the ground.
Holmgren needed assistance to get up after the play and didn’t return to the game. He underwent tests shortly after and was diagnosed with a right iliac wing fracture.
“Holmgren is expected to return during the 2024-25 season, and an update on his return-to-play protocol will be provided in eight-to-ten weeks, “said the Thunder in a press release.
Losing Holmgren is a tough blow for the Thunder. His ability to stretch the floor, anchor the defense, and be a capable rim protector are key to the way OKC plays. Additionally, the team is already thin in the frontcourt with offseason acquisition Isaiah Hartenstein and backup center Jaylin Williams being out due to injuries.
Holmgren previously missed his entire rookie season due to foot surgery before returning in 2023-24 and playing all 82 games. Before the Warriors’ game, he was averaging 18.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game.
