Thunder’s Double-Big Lineup Sparks Success in Post-All-Star Surge

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — After 50 games of experimentation, the Oklahoma City Thunder are beginning to effectively implement their much-anticipated double-big lineup featuring rookie Chet Holmgren and offseason acquisition Isaiah Hartenstein. The combination showed promising signs during their game against the Utah Jazz on Friday night, resulting in a dominant 130-107 victory.

Holmgren scored 20 points, while Hartenstein contributed 13 rebounds, with four coming on the offensive end, marking their best performance together this season. Despite initial struggles to find offensive flow, the duo has started to gel as they continue to work through growing pains.

“We always have to kind of toe the line of being aggressive to the point where we’re working on our stuff at this point in the season but also staying sharp,” Holmgren said after the game. “We missed a good portion of the season to do that, so it’s really important that we keep the trust in each other.”

The Thunder’s dual-big lineup has led to improved defensive metrics, allowing only 97.8 points per 100 possessions when both players are on the court. While their combined time on the floor is limited to just 136 possessions this season, even a modest adjustment in their performance metrics would indicate significant effectiveness.

Holmgren expressed belief in the partnership’s long-term potential, especially as he regains his form after an injury that sidelined him for an extended period. “I feel like I’m finally getting my swag back,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of their chemistry moving forward.

The team’s success over the remaining months of the regular season will be vital as they aim for a deep playoff run. Consistency in their interplay could bolster Oklahoma City’s chances at a title, with Holmgren feeling optimistic about their trajectory. “So long as we have trust in one another, we’ll continue to grow,” he added.