Is Chet Holmgren Playing Tonight Against the Milwaukee Bucks? Latest Update on the OKC Thunder Star’s Injury Report (October 14, 2025)

Chet Holmgren’s availability for tonight’s preseason showdown between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Milwaukee Bucks remains in doubt as he continues to manage shoulder soreness. The young Thunder star is officially listed as questionable for the October 14, 2025 matchup, with his condition being closely monitored by the team’s medical staff.Holmgren has yet to make his preseason debut this year, as the Oklahoma City Thunder have opted for a cautious approach in managing his workload. Given his injury history and the team’s long-term ambitions, Oklahoma City is prioritizing his recovery over early-season appearances. The lingering soreness has kept him out of multiple preseason contests, though fans are hopeful this game could mark his return to action.

Chet Holmgren’s Injury Situation and Preseason Context (October 14, 2025)

Chet Holmgren’s shoulder issue has limited his practice sessions and participation in team activities throughout the preseason. Oklahoma City has emphasized patience in ramping him up, especially considering the big man’s recovery from a significant hip fracture suffered last season. The Oklahoma City Thunder are expected to continue monitoring his progress closely as the regular season approaches.

In addition to Holmgren, Oklahoma City faces other injury challenges.

Jalen Williams remains sidelined with a wrist issue, while rookie guard Ajay Mitchell is dealing with an ankle injury. Both players are day-to-day, which has left the Thunder with a somewhat uncertain rotation during the preseason stretch.

Chet Holmgren’s Role and Importance to the Oklahoma City Thunder

Standing seven feet tall with an elite blend of size, skill, and defensive instincts, Chet Holmgren is one of the most versatile young talents in the league. His ability to impact the game as a scorer, rebounder, and rim protector makes him vital to Oklahoma City’s success as they look to defend their NBA championship title this season.The Oklahoma City Thunder view Holmgren as a cornerstone of their system, capable of stretching the floor offensively and anchoring the defense. His presence transforms the team’s dynamic, and his return to the court would be a major storyline for fans eager to see his development after months of rehabilitation and offseason preparation.

Potential Impact on the Matchup

The Milwaukee Bucks enter the preseason clash largely healthy and in strong form.

Their experienced lineup, featuring star power and depth, will test the Thunder’s defense and frontcourt - especially if Holmgren remains unavailable. Without him, Oklahoma City will need to rely heavily on the production and leadership of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luguentz Dort to stay competitive.Chet Holmgren’s participation could shift the balance in the matchup, providing Oklahoma City with much-needed rim protection and spacing against Milwaukee’s versatile offense.

If he plays, even for limited minutes, it would add an extra layer of intrigue to the game and serve as a preview of what the reigning champions might look like at full strength.

As of game day, Chet Holmgren’s status remains a game-time decision due to persistent shoulder soreness. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s medical team will evaluate him prior to tip-off to determine whether he is fit to make his preseason debut. Should he take the floor, fans can expect a brief but closely watched performance from one of the NBA’s most promising young players.Oklahoma City’s conservative approach underscores its commitment to ensuring Holmgren’s long-term health and readiness for the regular season. While his absence would be felt against the Bucks, the Thunder remain focused on the bigger picture - keeping their star forward in peak condition for another deep playoff run.Chet Holmgren’s potential return tonight could be a major highlight of the preseason, giving fans a glimpse of how the Oklahoma City Thunder plan to integrate him into their title defense in the upcoming 2025 - 26 campaign.