Despite missing his first year in the league due to an injury, Chet Holmgren has quickly become a force to be reckoned with for the Oklahoma City Thunder. After leading the team to a first-place finish in the regular season, Holmgren made a resounding playoff debut, joining NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal on an exclusive list of players who have achieved a rare feat in their first postseason appearance.
In a hard-fought battle between the top-seeded Thunder and the last-seeded New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City emerged victorious with a 94-92 win. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, an MVP candidate, led the way with 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Jalen Williams contributed 19 points and 7 rebounds, while Holmgren finished with an impressive 15 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 5 blocks.
Despite the absence of Zion Williamson due to a hamstring injury, the Pelicans put up a valiant fight, with Trey Murphy III leading the way with 21 points. CJ McCollum added 20 points and 6 assists, while Jonas Valanciunas chipped in 13 points and 20 rebounds.
Holmgren’s performance was not just impressive in itself; it also earned him a place in NBA history. He became the fifth player ever to record 15+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 5+ blocks in a playoff debut, joining the likes of Shaquille O’Neal, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, and Kevin Kunnert.
Holmgren’s all-around play is reminiscent of San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama, who also possesses exceptional size, athleticism, defensive prowess, ball-handling skills, and outside shooting. With his remarkable abilities, Holmgren has averaged 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game this season.
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive run this season is largely attributed to Holmgren’s contributions, which have helped to complete the team’s equation. His playoff debut has only solidified his status as a rising star, and bodes well for the future of the Thunder, who have a promising young core with Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams.
