The Oklahoma City Thunder were defending champions heading into the 2026 Playoffs, favorites to run it back and snatch another title. Instead, the San Antonio Spurs ripped that dream right out of their hands, and it was brutal. The biggest storyline coming out of that series? Chet Holmgren, who absolutely struggled mightily, especially going head-to-head with Victor Wembanyama, and man, did his reputation take a huge hit.
That Playoff Nightmare Was Real, And The Work Started Immediately
Let’s be real, the 2026 postseason was a nightmare for Holmgren. He was the butt of every joke, and yeah, he’d be the first to own up to it. But you gotta respect this: he’s been putting in the work all offseason to make sure that doesn’t happen again. The guy is grinding, trying to make the necessary improvements. He knows those jokes aren’t going away until he actually goes out there and proves everyone wrong. His performance against the Spurs is going to haunt him for a long, long time. If he wants to cement himself as a top big man in the league again, this upcoming season is everything. He’s not just playing for himself, he’s playing to erase that memory, to change the narrative. The dude is projected to be a key X-factor for their 2026-27 campaign, which tells you just how much rides on his shoulders.
Sam Presti’s Unwavering Trust Is A Game Changer
Here’s the kicker, and what really blew my mind: Thunder general manager Sam Presti is one of the biggest believers in Holmgren. That’s a massive sign of support for the OKC big man, because Presti clearly has no issue backing his guy. We’re talking about a GM who sees something special, even after that kind of playoff disappointment. Presti didn’t hold back in a presser ahead of the 2026-27 season, dropping this truth bomb: “Chet needs no motivation, out of everybody. This is a person who’s an ultra competitor. His preparation, his planning, and his mindset for those things is elite.” That’s not just GM-speak, that’s genuine belief. When your GM is that confident in your drive, you know it’s real.
This isn’t just about Holmgren, either. The Thunder are itching for revenge on the Spurs. And for them to get it, to reach their full potential, Holmgren playing well is absolutely essential. His ceiling for success directly impacts the team’s ceiling. With Jalen Williams feeling healthy and ready for a big 2026-27 season alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren getting back to form isn’t just a wish, it’s a requirement for them to go all the way. This season is gonna be wild, and Holmgren’s redemption arc? You won’t want to miss a second of it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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