Will Chet Holmgren play tonight in NBA Finals Game 2 vs Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the OKC Thunder star's injury report (June 8, 2025)

The Oklahoma City Thunder head into Game 2 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

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.

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 2

With no injury concerns, Holmgren is expected to bounce back in Game 2. 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

- 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 2. The Okc Thunder need him at his best to avoid falling into an 0-2 hole against a tough Pacers squad.