Since his injury on Nov. 10 at the Paycom Center, Chet Holmgren’s teammates have stood by him. Isaiah Hartenstein and Jaylin Williams were the first to help the fallen Thunder star after he landed on his hip during a game against the Golden State Warriors. They walked him into the tunnel, offering words of encouragement and support.
Throughout the 39 games that Holmgren missed due to a right iliac wing fracture, his teammates rallied around him. Players like Jalen Williams and Branden Carlson stepped up to fill his shoes, contributing to the team’s success despite his absence.
Holmgren made his return during a home win against Toronto, 89 days after his injury. The team, with a league-best record of 41-9, showed resilience and adaptability in his absence.
Jalen Williams, despite being an undersized center, played a crucial role during Holmgren’s absence. Making his first start at center, he faced taller opponents but never backed down. His versatility and team-first attitude earned him an All-Star selection this season.
Isaiah Hartenstein, dealing with a left hand injury, anchored the team in Holmgren’s absence. His presence on the court made a significant impact, providing screens and rebounds that benefited the team’s scorers. Hartenstein’s contributions were essential to the team’s success during this period.
Jaylin Williams, known for his unselfish play, seamlessly stepped into a starting role when needed. His floor spacing and distributing skills helped elevate the team’s performance, showcasing his value as a team player.
Branden Carlson, signed to two 10-day contracts, made the most of his opportunities to contribute. His shooting ability and versatility earned him a spot on the team for the rest of the season, showing his dedication and hard work.
Despite the challenges of Holmgren’s absence, the Thunder maintained their position as a top team in the league. With his return, the team is poised to compete for its first championship, fueled by Holmgren’s determination and the support of his teammates.
Holmgren expressed his excitement to be back on the court, eager to continue helping the team succeed and improve. The Thunder’s resilience and unity during his absence reflect their readiness to face any challenge that comes their way.
As the team prepares to compete at the highest level, Holmgren’s return signifies a new chapter in their journey towards championship glory.