Will Chet Holmgren play tonight in NBA Finals Game 3 vs Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the OKC Thunder star's injury report (June 11, 2025)
Is Chet Holmgren playing tonight? (Image via Getty)
The
Oklahoma City Thunder
head into Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the
Indiana Pacers
with a fully healthy
Chet Holmgren
, who has no restrictions on the injury report. This is a major positive for the Thunder, considering Holmgren's season was once in jeopardy due to a significant hip injury.
Chet Holmgren's injury history and recovery
Chet Holmgren's
road to the Finals hasn't been smooth. In November 2024, he suffered a fractured right iliac (hip bone) during a regular-season game, forcing him to miss 39 straight games. The injury required extensive rehab, including a period where he couldn't move freely, testing his mental and physical resilience.
Key details of his recovery:
- Injury date: November 2024
- Games missed: 39
- Return date: February 2025
- Post-return games played: 32 regular-season games, all playoff contests
Since returning, Holmgren has been a crucial part of the Thunder's rotation, showing no lingering effects from the injury.
Playoff performance and impact
OKC Thunder Game 3 injury report (Image via NBA)
Chet Holmgren has been a consistent force in the playoffs, averaging:
- Points per game: ~15
- Rebounds per game: ~8
- Assists per game: ~2
- Minutes per game: 30+
His defensive versatility and rim protection have been key for
Oklahoma City
, along with his ability to stretch the floor as a three-point threat.
However, Game 1 of the Finals was a different story.
Struggles in Game 1 and adjustments needed
Chet Holmgren had his worst playoff performance in Game 1, finishing with:
- Minutes played: 24
- Points: 6 (2-of-9 shooting)
- Rebounds: 6
- Blocks: 1
This was a sharp decline from his usual contributions, where he had scored in double digits in all but one playoff game and recorded multiple blocks 10 times.
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Holmgren acknowledged his struggles, stating he needs to slow down and finish better at the rim. A single play could have swung the close game in Oklahoma City's favor.
Expectations for Game 3
With no injury concerns, Holmgren is expected to bounce back in Game 3. Betting lines and fantasy projections suggest:
- Projected points: 14.5
- Projected rebounds: 8.5
The OKC Thunder will need him to step up, especially against a Pacers team that has had issues defending the paint.
Why Holmgren's performance is crucial for the OKC Thunder in Game 3
- Third-leading scorer: The Thunder rely on his scoring.
- Defensive anchor: His rim protection disrupts opponents.
- X-factor: A strong game from him could swing the series.
Chet Holmgren's journey—from a major injury to a Finals contributor—highlights his resilience. Now, with full health and a chance to even the series, all eyes will be on him in Game 3.
Also read:
Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander playing tonight in NBA Finals Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the OKC Thunder star's injury report (June 11, 2025)
The Okc Thunder need him at his best to avoid falling into a hole against a tough Pacers squad.
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