Chet Holmgren carries Thunder past Suns with 24-point double-double ahead of Lakers series

Key facts

• Chet Holmgren scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in Game 4 against the Suns on April 27.
• The Thunder swept the Phoenix Suns in the first round, winning 131-122 in the final game.
• Holmgren averaged 17.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.6 steals and 1.9 blocks during the regular season.
• Jalen Williams missed the last two games of the first-round series with a hamstring injury.
• The Thunder face the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the second round on Tuesday, May 5.
• The Lakers rank 11th in points allowed, conceding 114.6 points per game.
• Holmgren's points prop for Game 1 was set at 17.5 as of Tuesday afternoon.

Holmgren steps up as second option in Williams' absence

Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren delivered a dominant performance in the series-clinching win over the Phoenix Suns, posting 24 points and 12 rebounds in a 131-122 victory on April 27. The double-double capped a first-round sweep in which Holmgren averaged 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds and two blocks per game. Holmgren's role expanded significantly in the final two games after teammate Jalen Williams was sidelined with a hamstring injury. The third-year big man became the team's second scoring option behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and responded with increased aggression, particularly in Game 4. In Game 3, Holmgren scored only 10 points but shot 83.3% from the field on six attempts. He then flipped a switch in Game 4, taking over the game with a forceful inside-outside performance that helped OKC close out the series.

Thunder face Lakers in second-round matchup starting Tuesday

Oklahoma City now turns its attention to the Los Angeles Lakers, who advanced after a six-game first-round series. The Lakers struggled in the latter part of their series but ultimately prevailed. Game 1 of the second round is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5. Holmgren's points prop for the opener stood at 17.5 as of Tuesday afternoon.in the league in points allowed, conceding 114.6 points per contest, which could present opportunities for the Thunder's offense. The Thunder are seeking to maintain the dominance they displayed in the first round, where they swept a Suns team that had been considered a contender. Holmgren's ability to sustain his elevated production will be critical against a Lakers defense that features Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

Regular-season averages and playoff adjustments

During the regular season, Holmgren averaged 17.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.6 steals and 1.9 blocks per game. His playoff numbers through four games closely mirror those figures, with a slight uptick in rebounding and blocks. The Thunder's offensive system relies on Holmgren's versatility as a stretch five who can score inside and out. With Williams injured, the team has leaned more heavily on Holmgren to create his own shot and facilitate from the high post. Holmgren's efficiency in Game 3, despite limited attempts, and his explosion in Game 4 demonstrate his ability to adapt to defensive schemes. Against the Lakers, he will face a frontcourt that includes Davis, a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate.

Injury report and betting implications

Jalen Williams' hamstring injury remains a concern for Oklahoma City. His status for Game 1 has not been officially announced, but his absence in the final two games of the first round forced Holmgren into a larger role. The Thunder have not disclosed a timeline for Williams' return. Betting markets have set Holmgren's points prop at 17.5 for Game 1, reflecting his consistent scoring output. Odds are subject to change, and bettors are advised to check FanDuel Sportsbook for the most up-to-date lines. The Lakers' defensive ranking suggests they are vulnerable to scoring runs, but their experience in the playoffs could pose challenges for the relatively young Thunder roster.

What comes next: Holmgren's playoff evolution

As the Thunder advance deeper into the postseason, Holmgren's development as a primary option will be tested. The Lakers will likely game-plan to limit his touches and force him into difficult shots, a strategy that Phoenix attempted with mixed success. Holmgren's ability to maintain his double-double production against a more disciplined defense will be a key storyline in the series. If Williams returns, Holmgren can revert to a complementary role, but if not, he must continue to shoulder a heavier burden. The Thunder's championship aspirations hinge on Holmgren's growth. At 22 years old, he is already demonstrating the poise and skill set of a veteran, but the second round represents a significant step up in competition.

A defining series for Oklahoma City's young core

The Thunder's sweep of the Suns established them as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. Holmgren's performance in that series, particularly in the closeout game, signaled that he is ready for the playoff stage. Now, facing the Lakers, Oklahoma City has an opportunity to prove that its regular-season success was no fluke. Holmgren's matchup with Davis will be a focal point, as both players are elite shot-blockers who can stretch the floor. The series outcome will likely shape perceptions of Holmgren's career trajectory. A strong showing against a marquee opponent could elevate him into the conversation among the league's best young big men.

The bottom line

• Chet Holmgren averaged 17.1 points and 8.5 rebounds in the first-round sweep of the Suns, with a 24-point, 12-rebound double-double in Game 4.
• Jalen Williams' hamstring injury forced Holmgren into a larger role as the second option, a role he embraced with increased aggression.
• The Thunder face the Lakers in Game 1 of the second round on Tuesday, May 5; Holmgren's points prop is 17.5.
• The Lakers rank 11th in points allowed (114.6 per game), which could benefit Holmgren and the Thunder offense.
• Holmgren's playoff development is critical for Oklahoma City's championship hopes, especially if Williams remains sidelined.
• The series against the Lakers will test Holmgren against elite defenders like Anthony Davis, shaping his reputation as a rising star.