Thunder's Rising Star Chet Holmgren Set for Action Against Grizzlies
In a significant development for the team and its fans, the Oklahoma City Thunder have confirmed that their promising young talent, Chet Holmgren, has been medically cleared to participate in the upcoming NBA fixture. The highly anticipated game is scheduled for Sunday night, November 9, 2025, at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, where the Thunder will face off against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Navigating Injury and a Cautious Comeback
Holmgren's return to the court comes after a period of absence due to lower back soreness, an issue that sidelined him for several games this season. The Thunder's medical and coaching staff adopted a patient, long-term strategy, prioritising the player's complete recovery over a hurried return. This cautious approach led to him missing key contests, including a game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Even after returning to practice, he was held out of the second half of a back-to-back series as a preventative measure.
His presence on the court is a major asset for the Thunder, who have exploded out of the gates with an impressive 9-1 record, one of the best in the entire league. Holmgren has been a central figure in this success, averaging 18.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, demonstrating his all-around capabilities on both offence and defence.
Thunder's Current Roster and Playoff Ambitions
While Holmgren's return is a massive boost, the Thunder are not without their injury concerns. The team's injury report lists Luguentz Dort as day-to-day with a shoulder problem, while Aaron Wiggins is out with a left adductor strain. Jalen Williams is also continuing his rehabilitation from wrist surgery.
Despite these challenges, Head Coach Mark Daigneault has expressed confidence in his team's depth. He specifically mentioned the effective partnership between Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein in the frontcourt. With Holmgren back, the Thunder will lean heavily on their core trio of Holmgren, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Ajay Mitchell to challenge the Grizzlies' defence and solidify their standing as a genuine contender in the highly competitive Western Conference.
A Crucial Test in Memphis
This matchup presents a classic contrast in early-season fortunes. The Thunder are riding high with their 9-1 record, while the Grizzlies are searching for rhythm with a 4-6 start. For Oklahoma City supporters, Holmgren's return is more than just a player being available; it's a validation of the franchise's commitment to player health and its strategic vision for building a championship-calibre team.
All eyes will be on Chet Holmgren as he steps onto the court in Memphis. His performance in this Sunday night showdown could very well set the trajectory for the Thunder's season, reinforcing his status as one of the most exciting and promising young stars in the NBA today.
