Holmgren Averages 10 Points Against Spurs as Thunder Weigh Game 2 Defensive and Lineup Tweaks
Updated
Updated · Oklahoman.com · May 19
Holmgren Averages 10 Points Against Spurs as Thunder Weigh Game 2 Defensive and Lineup Tweaks
3 articles · Updated · Oklahoman.com · May 19
Eight points on 2-of-7 shooting in Game 1 sharpened Oklahoma City's concern over Chet Holmgren, who is averaging just 10 points on 37% shooting in five meetings with San Antonio.
Mark Daigneault said better collective offense—not set plays for Holmgren—should create cleaner looks after the Spurs largely erased him from the Thunder attack.
Holmgren may still take on a bigger defensive role in Game 2 after bothering Victor Wembanyama in stretches, including a late block that forced overtime; Daigneault said "everything's on the table."
Isaiah Hartenstein's starting spot is also under scrutiny after he logged only 12 minutes and was pulled 2:36 into Game 1, with Alex Caruso, Cason Wallace and Ajay Mitchell possible alternatives.
The Thunder held only a film session Tuesday after the double-overtime loss, while Jalen Williams came through 37 minutes in his first game back from a hamstring injury feeling mostly tired.
Will benching Hartenstein solve the Thunder's offensive woes, or is a deeper strategic change required?
Is the key to stopping Wembanyama hidden within his personal rivalry with Chet Holmgren?