Chet Holmgren Returns as Thunder Face Raptors in Key Matchup

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to welcome back star player Chet Holmgren as they prepare to face the Toronto Raptors on Friday night. Holmgren has been sidelined since early November due to a hip injury, but his return comes at a crucial time as the Thunder look to extend their three-game winning streak.

After announcing Holmgren will be clear to play, fans are eager to see how the 22-year-old integrates back into the lineup. “Just in: Thunder star Chet Holmgren is off the team’s injury report, clearing the way for him to return to action Friday against the Toronto Raptors in OKC,” reported NBA insider Shams Charania.

The Thunder currently hold the best record in the Western Conference at 40-9, showcasing their depth and resilience during Holmgren’s absence. Head coach Mark Daigneault has yet to confirm whether Holmgren will start or come off the bench, although it is likely that Isaiah Hartenstein will remain in the starting five to manage Holmgren’s minutes carefully.

Holmgren had been enjoying a breakout season before his injury, averaging 16.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game through 10 contests with shooting percentages of 50.5% from the field and 37.85% from 3-point range.

While the Thunder are excited about Holmgren’s return, they will miss several key role players for this matchup. Lu Dort, Cason Wallace, Ousmane Dieng, Ajay Mitchell, and Nikola Topić have all been ruled out for the game against Toronto.

On the other side, the Raptors will also be shorthanded, missing Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, Jakob Poeltl, and P.J. Tucker.

The Thunder-Raptors game is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. EST at the Paycom Center, and fans are anticipating an entertaining clash as both teams navigate their injury challenges.

Daigneault spoke about the importance of managing Holmgren’s return, stating, “We have plans, they’re not rigid. Some of this is watching how he responds, how he feels. We don’t go into things unplanned, but because it’s not rigid, I’m not going to share anything with you guys.”

With Holmgren’s potential returning impact, expectations are high as the Thunder aim to solidify their position as a title contender amid a competitive Western Conference.