In a shocking development, Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren will miss 8 to 10 weeks of action due to an injury sustained earlier this week. The 21-year-old, who has shown promise as the centerpiece of the Thunder’s future, is expected to be sidelined for a significant stretch of the regular season.
Holmgren, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, suffered the injury during a routine practice session. Initial reports from the team indicate that Holmgren experienced discomfort in his lower body, leading to an MRI to determine the extent of the damage.
While the team has not yet disclosed the specific nature of the injury, sources close to the situation suggest that it could involve the foot or ankle. Holmgren has a history of injury concerns after missing all of last season due to a foot fracture.
The Thunder confirmed the diagnosis late last night, and a timeline of 8 to 10 weeks for Holmgren’s recovery was provided. His absence will likely impact Oklahoma City’s lineup and could alter the team’s early-season expectations.
Head coach Mark Daigneault expressed his concern for the young player in a statement this morning. “Chet has been working incredibly hard to get back on the court, and this setback is tough for him and for us as a team,” Daigneault said.
Holmgren’s absence is particularly impactful as he had been expected to play a central role in the Thunder’s plans for this season. His ability to space the floor, block shots, and create mismatches was seen as crucial to the team’s success.
The Thunder will now look to other players, including fellow rising star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, to pick up the slack in Holmgren’s absence. The team is also expected to experiment with different lineups as they adjust to the loss of their promising big man.
While the injury is a blow to the Thunder’s early-season hopes, the team remains optimistic that Holmgren will fully recover. With a strong support system and plenty of time to heal, Holmgren is expected to return to action in the latter half of the season.
Stay tuned for more updates on Holmgren’s recovery and the Thunder’s efforts to stay competitive in his absence.
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