Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, Thunder
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The Oklahoma City Thunder could have two players represent the team in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have the best record in the league. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was recently named a starter for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. This will be his fourth All-Star appearance and he recently endorsed his teammate for a spot in the game.
After the Thunder’s 117-114 loss to the Indiana Pacers. Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his opinion and said that Chet Holmgren should be in the All-Star game. “Chet’s kind of been hauled by injuries in the past or he would of had a few under his belt already,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “His impact in winning is second to none and if you don’t win it doesn’t matter.”
“To me it’s a no-brainier, the guy should definitely be an All-Star,” he added. Holmgren has had a productive season so far and does make a strong case to be considered for the All-Star Game. Through 40 games this season, he’s averaging 18 points, 8.5 rebounds and two blocks per game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Speaking Highly of His Teammate
When Gilgeous-Alexander said that Holmgren should be an All-Star, he also talked about how much he’s grown throughout his short time in the league. “You’ve seen it here firsthand. And he just continues to grow and get better with his skill and with his game,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I’m not sure what his stats are, but it feels like he’s having the best year of his career, offensively. Then, defensively, he’s a monster.”
This season, Holmgren is putting up career-high numbers in points per game and rebounds per game. He’s been a vital piece to the Thunder’s success this season and also played a vital part in the team’s championship last year. Holmgren has shown that he can be a threat on the offensive end. Earlier this season, he had a 31-point double-double performance against the Atlanta Hawks.
With Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge for the Thunder, Holmgren has been a valuable second option for the team this season. Holmgren has been the catalyst on defense for the Thunder. His presence in the paint has made it difficult for opposing teams to score on him.
Chet Holmgren Developing Into a Star
In year three, Holmgren already has an NBA title and is playing on a Thunder team that can make a strong case to win another title this season. When the Thunder drafted Holmgren with the second overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, the organization was excited to see what he could do on the court.
Unfortunately, Holmgren’s NBA debut would be put on pause because of a foot injury he suffered in the summer of 2022. He was forced to miss the entire 2022-23 season. Holmgren did not let his injury diminish him. The Minnesota native had an impressive rookie year during the 2023-24 season averaging 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks.
Last season, he dealt with a pelvis injury that sidelined him for almost two months. When he returned he made an immediate impact as the Thunder went on to win its second title in franchise history. Holmgren continues to get better each year and he has what it takes to become one of the top players in the league. The Thunder will continue to be a threat with Holmgren on the team.