![Kendrick Perkins explains Chet Holmgren's importance for the OKC Thunder's NBA Finals hopes this season](https://www.totalprosports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Chet-Holmgren-1-1024x563.jpg)
The Oklahoma City Thunder is experiencing an exceptional 2024-2025 NBA season. Currently, they occupy a remarkable position, leading the Western Conference standings, with a 41-9 record. In light of this success, former NBA player Kendrick Perkins provided a thoughtful analysis regarding Thunder forward Chet Holmgren.
Holmgren made his much-awaited return during the recent game against the Toronto Raptors. Following his comeback, Perkins expressed confidence that Holmgren’s presence would be a game-changer for the Thunder.
“I call him the white version of Kevin Garnett. Chet Holmgren is going to be the X factor on why the Oklahoma City Thunder is gonna be in the NBA Finals this year,” Perkins said in the recent episode of ESPN’s NBA Countdown.
"Chet Holmgren is going to be the X factor on why the Oklahoma City Thunder is gonna be in the NBA Finals this year."@KendrickPerkins is confident that Holmgren's return will be a game-changer for the Thunder 👀 pic.twitter.com/hkAEsCXmRt
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 8, 2025
On November 10, 2024, during a matchup against the Warriors, Holmgren suffered a significant fall on his right side while contesting an aggressive drive by Andrew Wiggins. Medical assessments following the incident revealed that he had sustained a right iliac wing fracture, which resulted in his exclusion from gameplay for an estimated recovery period of 8 to 10 weeks.
Chet Holmgren Opens Up About Recovery And Return
In his first game following an extended recovery period, Holmgren logged 22 minutes of playtime. He contributed four points, five rebounds, two steals, and four blocks to the team’s efforts. Furthermore, during the post-game interview, he shared his joy about returning to the court and emphasized his anticipation for continued improvement in his performance.
“It’s amazing. I missed it for a long time, and I worked really hard to be able to get back out there. So I’m happy and excited and look forward to continue to try and help us win and keep improving,” Holmgren said (via ESPN).
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The Thunder recently defeated the Raptors 121-109. They currently have a record of 41 wins and nine losses in the 2024-25 NBA season. Their next game will be against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum.