In the absence of 2024-25 All-NBA forward Jalen Williams at the start of the season, the Oklahoma City Thunder needed some of its rotation to step up and fill into the hole he leaves. This was an opportunity to third-year center Chet Holmgren to capitalize on; that is exactly what he has done.

Holmgren exited to the locker room after sustaining an apparent hand injury in the second quarter of Saturday's game against the Hawks, Clemente Almanza of USA Today reports. Holmgren attempted to block a dunk but seemingly ended up hurting his hand before exiting to the locker room.

Usually in business mode, Chet Holmgren gave fans glimpses of his personable self. When you win an NBA championship, you can ease off a bit. The 23-year-old took to social media to engage with fans and admit his nostalgia for OKC despite only a three-month offseason.

The Oklahoma City Thunder finally get to breathe after four quarters of play, beating the Atlanta Hawks in regulation, 117-100, at State Farm Arena.

Holmgren recorded 31 points (8-12 FG, 6-8 3Pt, 9-10 FT), 12 rebounds, one assist, three steals and one block over 27 minutes during the Thunder's 117-100 win over the Hawks on Saturday. Holmgren got off to a hot start with 14 points in the first quarter before closing things out with eight more points in the fourth.

Thunder forward Chet Holmgren on the Rockets adding All-Star Kevin Durant during the offseason and his Opening Night matchup.

Thursday’s NBA action isn’t nearly as extensive as the 12-game slate on Wednesday, as there are just four teams in action, but two are making their season debut

Chet Holmgren scored 31 points, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 30 and the reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder pulled away in the second half for a 117-100 victory over the short-handed Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night.