2.2 BPG (Regular Season): 3rd
1.9 BPG (Postseason): 4th
WCF Game 5: 8:30PM/ET on ESPN
The Oklahoma City Thunder are one win away from the NBA Finals, and while much of the spotlight has been on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s offensive brilliance, the foundation of their defense—and arguably one of the most vital pieces to their playoff run—is Chet Holmgren.
Long, lean, and laser-focused, Holmgren has quickly evolved from a highly anticipated rookie into a legitimate defensive anchor in just his first full NBA season. At 2.2 blocks per game in the regular season (ranking 3rd in the league) and 1.9 blocks per game in the postseason (currently 4th overall), Holmgren has turned the paint into a no-fly zone.
With Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals tipping off at 8:30PM ET on ESPN, the stakes couldn’t be higher—and you can bet Holmgren will be patrolling the lane with his usual fearless energy.
A Tower in the Trenches
Standing 7’1” with a 7’6” wingspan, Chet Holmgren doesn’t just block shots—he alters games. His presence in the paint forces opponents to second-guess every drive, hesitate on floaters, and think twice about challenging him at the rim.
Opponents have learned the hard way: when you go into the paint against the Thunder, you better account for No. 7.
Chet’s defensive instincts are elite, especially for a rookie. He has a rare ability to read timing, anticipate offensive movement, and use his length without fouling. What separates him from other shot-blockers is his discipline—he doesn’t chase every swat. He picks his moments with surgical precision.
And when he gets one? The crowd roars. The energy shifts. The momentum often follows.
The X-Factor in OKC’s Rise
The Thunder’s young core has been the talk of the league. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is an MVP-caliber leader. Jalen Williams brings two-way versatility. Josh Giddey has playmaking flair. But Holmgren? He’s the one holding the fort.
In a league dominated by elite big men—Jokic, Embiid, Davis—Holmgren gives OKC a counterpunch. He might not have the frame or strength of the NBA’s most bruising centers yet, but his skill, IQ, and timing more than make up for it.
Night after night, Holmgren matches up with the league’s best and holds his ground. He contests everything. He communicates. He rotates. And most importantly, he anchors the Thunder defense like a seasoned veteran.
Postseason Growth Under the Brightest Lights
What’s most impressive about Holmgren is how he’s elevated his game in the playoffs.
In a conference stacked with battle-tested big men, Holmgren hasn’t backed down. Despite his slender frame, he’s shown he can take hits, fight through contact, and still protect the rim effectively. His 1.9 BPG in the postseason isn’t just a stat—it’s a reflection of how consistently he’s impacting high-pressure games.
In Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals, Holmgren recorded four blocks, numerous altered shots, and helped the Thunder hold their opponent to under 40% shooting in the paint. He’s not just protecting the rim—he’s redefining OKC’s defensive identity.
More Than a Rim Protector
While his blocks are eye-popping, Holmgren’s value goes beyond the box score. His mobility allows him to switch onto guards, contest jumpers on the perimeter, and hedge pick-and-rolls with confidence. In today’s NBA, where versatility is key, Holmgren is the prototype for a modern center.
Offensively, he’s no slouch either. Stretching the floor with a smooth jumper, finishing lobs, and making smart passes, Holmgren gives the Thunder a true two-way weapon. But make no mistake—his defense is what’s setting the tone this postseason.
All Eyes on Game 5
With Game 5 tipping off at 8:30PM ET on ESPN, the Thunder are looking to close out the series at home and punch their first ticket to the NBA Finals since 2012.
To do that, they’ll need Holmgren at his best. The opposing team will likely try to attack him early—testing his durability, trying to bait him into foul trouble, and forcing mismatches in the post. But Holmgren has answered the call every time.
His job isn’t just about racking up blocks. It’s about anchoring the paint, deterring drives, and giving his teammates the confidence to pressure the perimeter.
As head coach Mark Daigneault said earlier this week:
“Chet’s impact goes far beyond what you see on the stat sheet. He gives us the freedom to be aggressive defensively because we know he’s back there.”
A Star in the Making
Holmgren’s rookie season is one for the books. After sitting out last year with an injury, the former No. 2 overall pick has shown that he’s not just part of OKC’s future—he’s shaping it.
He’s third in regular-season blocks. Fourth in postseason blocks. And with each playoff game, he looks more and more like a player built for these moments.
He’s long. He’s smart. He’s fearless. And he’s protecting the paint like few others in the league can.
The Thunder Rise Behind a Towering Rookie
As OKC prepares for Game 5, the formula remains simple: let Shai orchestrate the offense, let the role players hustle and hit shots—and let Chet hold it down inside.
The Thunder’s return to prominence has been powered by youth, unity, and resilience.
But don’t forget the last line of defense.
@chet_holmgren is protecting the paint.
And protecting OKC’s path to the Finals.
