Thunder's biggest Chet Holmgren question will follow them all season

The central question for Oklahoma City Thunder star Chet Holmgren heading into the 2025-26 NBA season is whether he can overcome his persistent injury issues. This uncertainty is viewed as the primary obstacle to the Thunder achieving back-to-back championships, making his health the key factor in the team's dynastic aspirations.

Holmgren missed the entire 2022-23 season due to a Lisfranc injury but returned to play all 82 games in 2023-24, finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting. His performance that season included averages of 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. He continued to excel in 2024-25, averaging 15.0 points and 2.2 blocks in just 27.4 minutes per game, though he missed 50 regular-season games, bringing his three-year total to 114 appearances and 132 absences.

Despite his injury history, the Thunder have demonstrated significant faith in Holmgren by signing him to a five-year, $239.9 million contract extension. This investment reflects the organization's belief in his potential to develop into a superstar, provided he can maintain his health. Notably, he has been available for all 33 of the team's playoff games over the past two seasons, which offers some optimism.

Holmgren's on-court impact is vital to Oklahoma City's system, as his defensive presence and offensive versatility are essential. Off the court, his salary will consume over 25% of the team's cap space once his extension begins. Ultimately, the only way to alleviate concerns about his injury history is for him to remain healthy throughout the 2025-26 season.