Chet Holmgren extension somehow just got even better

The Oklahoma City Thunder faced criticism from Fox Sports' Craig Carton, who labeled Chet Holmgren's recent contract extension as potentially the "dumbest contract ever signed in the history of the NBA." This criticism emerged despite Holmgren playing a pivotal role in the Thunder's NBA Championship run.

However, analysis of the contract details reveals potential flaws in Carton's argument. The Thunder secured Holmgren on a five-year, $250 million max rookie extension. Crucially, while teammates Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams have designated player clauses allowing their salaries to rise to 30% of the salary cap if they earn MVP, Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY), or All-NBA honors, Holmgren's deal is fixed at the standard 25% of the cap regardless of future accolades.

This fixed structure is viewed as a significant financial advantage for the Thunder. Given their existing high-end financial commitments, locking Holmgren at 25% provides payroll stability and avoids potential future salary spikes, potentially making the deal "an absolute steal" in coming years.

Holmgren's performance supports the Thunder's investment. Before a right iliac wing fracture in late November, he was averaging 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game, showing All-Star and All-NBA potential. Even after a four-month injury absence, his defense remained elite; he ranked third in defensive rating among playoff players logging over 20 minutes per game and held Myles Turner to 37.7% shooting in the NBA Finals.

The article concludes that based on his trajectory, Holmgren is likely to achieve All-Star selections, All-NBA honors, and potentially DPOY recognition. Should these accomplishments occur, the fixed 25% max contract will prove to be a major bargain for the Thunder compared to the potential 30% escalators in his teammates' deals.