Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said the Oklahoma City Thunder need Chet Holmgren despite the rookie's struggles during the Western Conference Finals [1].
The public support from the team's primary star comes at a critical juncture for the franchise. As the Thunder face scrutiny over their postseason exit, the internal dynamic between their veteran leadership and young core will determine how the team addresses its weaknesses heading into the next season.
The comments followed Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals on June 18, 2024 [1], which took place at the AT&T Center in San Antonio. While the Thunder fell to the San Antonio Spurs, Gilgeous-Alexander sought to shield Holmgren from criticism regarding his performance in the series.
"I have full faith in Chet. We need him," Gilgeous-Alexander said [1].
Despite the struggles noted in the final series, Holmgren had shown flashes of offensive production earlier in the playoffs. He scored 19 points in the Thunder’s Game 2 victory over the Spurs [2]. Gilgeous-Alexander pointed to Holmgren's role as a defensive centerpiece as the primary reason for his continued confidence in the rookie.
"He anchors the best defense in the league," Gilgeous-Alexander said [2].
The star player said that the rookie is central to the long-term vision of the organization. This alignment suggests the Thunder will continue to build their identity around the pairing of Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren, a strategy that prioritizes versatility and rim protection.
"Chet is the future of this franchise," Gilgeous-Alexander said [3].
“"I have full faith in Chet. We need him."”
The public endorsement by Gilgeous-Alexander serves to stabilize a young locker room after a high-stakes loss. By framing Holmgren as the 'future' and a defensive anchor, the team is signaling to the league and its fan base that they view the rookie's growth as a priority over immediate short-term replacements, effectively doubling down on their current core roster.
