Chet Holmgren’s All-Star Case: One More Shot to Seal the Deal
For most of the Oklahoma City Thunder roster, Thursday night’s matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves is just another stop on the long road of an 82-game grind. But for Chet Holmgren, it’s something more-it’s his last chance to make a statement before All-Star reserves are announced on February 1. And make no mistake: Holmgren has a real shot at hearing his name called.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is already locked in. The Thunder’s superstar guard was named an All-Star starter for the fourth straight season, a no-brainer selection given his elite play. But now the spotlight shifts to Holmgren, the 7-foot unicorn who’s quietly built a rock-solid case of his own.
Let’s start with the numbers. Holmgren is in the midst of the best season of his young career, averaging 17.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game while shooting an ultra-efficient 57.1% from the field and 37.5% from three. That’s not just good for a big man-it’s elite two-way production for any position, especially for a 23-year-old in just his second full season.
But what really separates Holmgren from the pack is his defense. He’s been a true anchor for one of the league’s top teams, ranking third in total blocks (85), second in defensive win shares, and posting a defensive rating of 102.7.
Opponents are shooting just 42.5% against him-numbers that scream Defensive Player of the Year frontrunner. It’s not just about blocks; it’s about altering shots, switching onto guards, and being the safety net for an aggressive Thunder defense that thrives on pressure.
And let’s not overlook the context. The Thunder are sitting atop the NBA standings.
Historically, the league’s best teams are rewarded with multiple All-Star selections. Last season, OKC had both Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams representing the franchise in San Francisco.
This year, Holmgren has stepped into that second star role seamlessly. His impact is felt on both ends, night in and night out.
Don’t just take the stat sheet’s word for it-SGA himself has gone to bat for Holmgren, calling out his importance to the team’s success and making it clear that OKC’s rise to the top isn’t happening without No. 7 in the middle. That kind of endorsement carries weight, especially coming from one of the league’s elite.
Thursday’s game against Minnesota is Holmgren’s final audition before the reserves are announced. It’s one more chance to show voters what they’ve been watching all season: a young big man playing beyond his years, anchoring a top defense, spacing the floor, and helping lead the Thunder to the best record in basketball.
If the All-Star Game is about showcasing the league’s best and brightest, then Holmgren deserves his spot under the lights.