During the impressive 2024-25 NBA season, the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased a dominant defense, leading the league with 68 regular season wins and capturing their first-ever NBA championship. This success was largely attributed to the defensive prowess of players like Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Alex Caruso. Notably, Chet Holmgren, the team’s standout big man, played a pivotal role in the Thunder’s defense after returning from a lengthy injury absence.
Chet Holmgren’s Return
Holmgren had an injury-plagued regular season, missing 50 games due to a hip injury. However, he made a significant impact during the playoffs. In the NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers, Holmgren set a Game 7 record with five blocks, crucial for securing the championship for Oklahoma City.
Points Erased Leader
A recent study conducted by Todd Whitehead at Sportradar highlighted Holmgren’s exceptional defensive skills. He led the NBA in ‘points erased’ during the 2024-25 season. This statistic measures the average reduction in expected possession value when Holmgren was the closest defender on two-point shots.
Key Statistics
- Games Played: 32
- Average Blocks per Game: 2.2
- Current Season Blocks per Game: 1.3
- Steals per Game: 1 (career high projected)
Defensive Impact
Despite a slight drop in block numbers this season, Holmgren remains a key defensive asset for the Thunder. His ability to disrupt shots is invaluable, contributing significantly to the team’s overall defensive strategy. Even when his offensive game isn’t at its peak, Holmgren’s defensive skills solidify his status as a vital player for Oklahoma City.
Looking Ahead
This offseason, Holmgren secured a rookie maximum contract extension that will keep him with the Thunder through at least 2030. As he continues to develop, fans can expect more standout performances from him, particularly on the defensive end.
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