Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals was a nightmare for Chet Holmgren and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The big man struggled in particular, finishing with four points and four rebounds on just 1-for-2 shooting, seeming somewhat intimidated by Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs’ aggressive, physical defense.

It was the wrong time for his worst performance of the playoffs, and with the Thunder’s quest for a repeat now over, questions have shifted to whether Holmgren should be part of their future.

Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports wrote:

“So, trade Chet? I don’t think the answer is a definitive yes, to be clear. Chet was voted second for Defensive Player of the Year for a reason. He might’ve got dunked on, but he still made some competitive plays for the Thunder on that end throughout the series. And he’s only 24 years old, so there’s room for growth on offense.

But it is completely reasonable to question whether Chet should be part of Oklahoma City’s future. He has struggled offensively in the playoffs. He’s about to get paid big money. Durability is a concern too. He missed his entire rookie season with a Lisfranc injury to his right foot, and missed 50 regular-season games last year with a hip bone fracture. Those types of injuries piling up for a 7-footer is pretty scary,”

The 24-year-old Holmgren’s five-year, $239.25 million rookie max extension signed to stay in Oklahoma City in July begins next season and runs through 2030-31. He averaged 14.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 15 games this postseason.

Not too long ago, Holmgren was viewed as an untouchable cornerstone for the Thunder alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. That’s how quickly things can change in sports, and especially the NBA.

A trade this summer may be unlikely, but the fact that we’re even having discussions about a potential Holmgren trade is telling enough.

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