Defense wins championships. The Oklahoma City Thunder made that known when they launched into the stratosphere last year. Now up 2-0 in their series against the Phoenix Suns, it seems history is repeating itself. With the series shifting to Phoenix, the next two games’ outcome may vary on Chet Holmgren‘s defense and his increased production for OKC.
It cannot be denied that the Thunder center has been valuable to their success. He is one of the best defenders this league has seen in a long while, and he’s such a rare talent so far. OKC has seen some ups and downs this year, but Holmgren has been able to help them stay competitive and consistent. Now they’re on the hunt to close out this series against Phoenix on the road.
Chet Holmgren’s Defense Will Determine Thunder-Suns Series
Each of the last two first-round series OKC has played has ended up in a sweep. It was a total domination from the defending champs, and they’re on the pace to do it again. Those last two sweeps would not have been possible without Holmgren manning the middle. His presence deters opponents from attempting shots in the paint. And those who directly challenged him have learned their lesson.
But as this title chase continues, it seems his impact will dictate how this series will turn out.
Holmgren’s Defense Is A Blessing For OKC
By the end of Game 2, the Thunder have now set a +300 point differential in any 15-game stretch in the playoffs. Of course, you have to give credit to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander‘s leadership, but also to the defensive guys like Lu Dort, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace. However, outside of that, Holmgren is the one you’ll want to count on, especially when it comes to guarding the rim.
Sure, Holmgren may not be the consensus best defender in the league. But in another timeline, critics may have praised his overall game better than most people think. He’s the biggest reason OKC is running teams out of the gym. By now, you should know that this is the norm ever since the Gonzaga product came in.
OKC is the first team in NBA history to post a +300 point differential over any 15-game span at home in the playoffs, dating back to last postseason 🤯 pic.twitter.com/6mmObCeFlh
— NBA (@NBA) April 23, 2026
In fact, SGA was quick to praise and point out the fact that Holmgren changed everything for Oklahoma City. Ever since the big man came into the league, the Thunder have always been the first seed in the Western Conference. If that doesn’t satisfy you, then it is worth noting that Holmgren also leads the league in total blocks in the playoffs ever since he came into the NBA.
Thunder Defense Is Different With Holmgren In The Playoffs
In case you haven’t been watching the Thunder until now, defense is their strongest suit. Having the second-best defender in the league changes that. Phoenix is a team full of strong attackers, especially with Devin Booker and Jalen Green. However, none of that seems to matter as their presence in the paint has been absolutely negated by Holmgren.
In fact, the first two games of the Thunder-Suns series have already seen him amass a total of six blocks. In comparison, he had seven in his first two games against Memphis in Round 1 last year. What makes it even better is that his blocks total per series last year aren’t that far behind. Defensive impact also counts when he forces opponents not to attack him in the paint, even in open lanes.
A classic "NEVERMIND" forced by Chet!
Defensive impact is just nuts. pic.twitter.com/2mBk9e10a8
— Pranav Sriraman (@PranavSriraman) April 23, 2026
Holmgren finished with 11 blocks against the Grizzlies, 13 in seven games versus Denver, and eight against Minnesota. He also set a record for the most blocks in a Game 7 in the NBA Finals with five, to go along with a total of 11 against Indiana.
If this series continues to play to his strengths, this may be a chance to log the most blocks he’ll have in a playoff series.
Taking Over The Series
In two games, Holmgren is averaging 17.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks. He’s also shooting at 54.5% from the field. What makes it even better is that Phoenix doesn’t actually have an answer to him, or even his fellow center, Isaiah Hartenstein. With Jalen Williams probably getting sidelined, this is another part of his game that the Thunder can unlock.
Mark Williams, the Suns’ main center, is out with an injury. This has Oso Ighodaro taking over the starting role, and Khaman Maluach coming off the bench. Neither of these players has actually made an impact for Phoenix in the series so far. Holmgren, being a crafty and savvy two-way player, can use this to his advantage.
Chet Holmgren 19 PTS, 8 REB, 4 BLK, 7/12 FG, 3/6 3FG, 2/3 FT, 71.3% TS vs Phoenix pic.twitter.com/lfRZSlICSJ https://t.co/SqiZBTHIbI
— Basketball Performances (@NBAPerformances) April 23, 2026
As OKC looks to come up with a bigger run in the next two games, Holmgren may be the answer. Sure, they’ll need SGA to play like his MVP-caliber self, but they need the rest of the gang to step up, too. J-Dub remains uncertain for the rest of the series, so it’s up to Holmgren to put himself to work.
If there was a right time for the Thunder center to prove his worth, this is indeed his time to shine. Chet Holmgren’s defense is one thing, but his offense changes everything for OKC.
Featured Image: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
