Key Highlights
- Chet Holmgren led the NBA in ‘points erased’ per game during the 2024-25 season.
- The Oklahoma City Thunder’s defense was a key factor in their 68 regular-season wins and first-ever NBA title.
- Holmgren returned from injury to play a crucial role in the Thunder’s playoff run, setting a new Game 7 NBA Finals record with 5 blocks against Indiana Pacers.
Chet Holmgren’s Defensive Impact
Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren has emerged as one of the league’s top defensive players, leading the NBA in a unique statistic known as ‘points erased’ during the 2024-25 season. According to recent data from Todd Whitehead at Sportradar, Holmgren was the closest defender on two-point shots, significantly reducing the expected possession value during the final second before the shot.
His defensive prowess is a testament to his versatility and strategic positioning on the court. The stat underscores how effectively Holmgren can disrupt opponents’ scoring attempts, making him an invaluable asset for the Thunder’s formidable defense.
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s Defensive Dominance
The 2024-25 season saw the Thunder establish a defensive fortress that was pivotal in their path to success. Led by First-Team All-Defense honoree Lu Dort, and supported by Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso, the team’s elite defense contributed significantly to their 68 regular-season wins, securing the franchise’s first-ever NBA title.
Despite Chet Holmgren’s absence during much of the regular season due to a hip injury, his return for the playoffs proved transformative. His presence was crucial in bolstering the Thunder’s defensive structure, as evidenced by his record-setting performance against the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.
Holmgren’s Defensive Adaptability and Future Prospects
While Holmgren struggled to find a consistent offensive rhythm after missing 50 regular-season games due to injury, his defensive contributions were undeniable. In 32 games during the season, he averaged an impressive 2.2 blocks per contest, a figure that dipped slightly in the 2025-26 season where he is averaging just 1.3 blocks per game.
However, Holmgren’s defensive skills extend beyond blocking shots, as demonstrated by his new career-high average of one steal per game this season. These multifaceted abilities position him well for continued success with the Thunder in the years to come, especially after securing a rookie maximum contract extension that will keep him in Oklahoma City past 2030.
Even when his shot isn’t falling, Holmgren remains a formidable player on defense, ensuring he will continue to be integral to the Thunder’s defensive strategy and overall success.
Conclusion
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s championship run in the 2024-25 season was built on a foundation of relentless defense. Chet Holmgren’s stellar performances, including leading the league in ‘points erased’, highlight his importance to this defensive powerhouse. As he continues to develop both offensively and defensively, fans can expect significant contributions from Holmgren for years to come.
