The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without one of their most important frontcourt players for an extended stretch.
Chet Holmgren underwent treatment Friday to address a small tear in his patellar tendon, the Thunder announced. He is expected to miss approximately 8–10 weeks while recovering.
The injury is a significant setback for Oklahoma City as it looks to navigate the early portion of the 2026-27 NBA season without its young All-Star big man.
According to the Thunder, Holmgren experienced mild discomfort in his right knee on October 25. Following consultations with specialists, the organization elected to proceed with a biological treatment. The procedure was successful, and the team expects him to make a full recovery.
Holmgren’s 2026-27 season statistics
Through his first three games, the 24-year-old center was averaging:
- 12.0 points
- 9.3 rebounds
- 3.0 blocks per game
Holmgren was coming off an impressive 2025-26 campaign, earning All-NBA recognition and finishing as the runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year.
Thunder dealing with multiple injuries
Holmgren’s injury adds to an increasingly difficult situation for Oklahoma City.
Jalen Williams: Suffered a fractured left fibula and dislocated left ankle. He underwent surgery and will be reevaluated before the end of the regular season.
Cason Wallace: Underwent surgery Friday to address a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He will also be reevaluated before the end of the regular season.
Alex Caruso: Dealing with a right ankle sprain.
With Holmgren, Williams and Wallace sidelined, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the remaining Thunder players will have additional responsibilities as Oklahoma City navigates this stretch.
The defending champions now face a significant early-season test as they work to keep their championship aspirations on track.
