Chet Holmgren's injury status for OKC Thunder vs Indiana Pacers NBA Finals Game 1 (June 5, 2025)

The Oklahoma City Thunder have received a major boost ahead of Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers. Chet Holmgren, the team’s starting center and power forward, is fully healthy and not listed on the injury report.

After a challenging season marked by a significant injury, Holmgren is set to play his usual role as a key contributor in the series opener.

Chet Holmgren’s injury status for OKC Thunder vs Indiana Pacers Game 1 (June 5, 2025)

- Availability: Cleared to play, no restrictions. - Role: Expected to start at center/power forward. - Playoff consistency: Played every postseason game without setbacks. Chet Holmgren’s presence ensures the Oklahoma City Thunder enter the Finals at full strength, aside from rookie Nikola Topic, who remains sidelined with a knee injury.

Chet Holmgren’s injury history and recovery timeline

Chet Holmgren’s season was derailed in November 2024 when he suffered a fractured right iliac (hip fracture), forcing him to miss 39 consecutive games. His return in February 2025 marked a turning point, and he has since regained his form. Key recovery milestones:

Despite the extended absence, Holmgren has shown no lingering effects, proving his durability in high-stakes playoff games.

Holmgren's Mental resilience and playoff mindset

Holmgren has been vocal about how the injury reshaped his approach to the game.

During interviews, he highlighted the mental toll of being bedridden and unable to walk, which deepened his appreciation for playing at the highest level. Key takeaways from his interviews: - Gratitude: Values each game after experiencing long-term immobility. - Adaptability: Focused on improving his game to meet playoff demands. - Growth mindset: Credits the injury for strengthening his mental toughness. This perspective has translated into his on-court performance, where he’s been a steady force for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Chet Holmgren’s impact on the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Finals run

With Holmgren healthy, Oklahoma City gains a critical two-way player for the Finals. His skillset addresses several key areas: - Defensive anchor: Provides elite rim protection against Pacers’ drives. - Floor spacing: Stretches defenses with his three-point shooting. - Versatility: Can guard multiple positions, crucial for switching schemes. His matchup against Indiana’s frontcourt, including Myles Turner and Pascal Siakam, will be pivotal in Game 1.Also read: OKC Thunder vs Indiana Pacers NBA Finals Game 1 betting predictions: Best bets, pick, spread, and odds for 2025 Championship SeriesChet Holmgren is fully cleared and ready to start in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals. After overcoming a major hip injury earlier in the season, he has emerged as a foundational piece for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s championship aspirations. His health and playoff form give Oklahoma City a significant edge as they face the Pacers.