Chet Holmgren returns as Thunder aim for NBA Championship

Oklahoma City Thunder’s (OKC) forward-centre is set to return to the lineup on Saturday (AEDT) against the Toronto Raptors after missing nearly three months with a right iliac wing fracture.

This news has encouraged the odds, with the top online bookmakers placing Oklahoma as a $1.03 favourite, while the struggling Raptors are currently priced at $12 with Marantelli Bet.

Holmgren sustained the pelvic fracture on November 10 while attempting to contest a shot by Golden State’s Andrew Wiggins, and the Thunder initially projected an eight-to-10-week recovery period.

After a mid-January update suggested he would miss another three to five weeks, Holmgren is now officially cleared to return in line with those expectations.

The 7-foot-1 centre, who finished as runner-up for NBA Rookie of the Year in 2023, had been off to an impressive start this season, averaging 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game across nine games.

His presence on both ends of the floor was immediately felt before the injury, particularly as an elite rim protector with All-Defensive potential.

Despite his absence, the Thunder have surged to the top of the Western Conference, boasting an NBA-best 40-9 record.

Their defence has been among the league’s best, posting a 103.9 defensive rating, and their dominance has kept them in championship contention.

OKC are a close second favourite to claim the NBA Championship at $3.40 with BetOnline.

With Holmgren back in the mix, Oklahoma City’s championship aspirations have never looked stronger.

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