For most of the series, the Oklahoma City Thunder's first-round matchup against the Phoenix Suns seemed largely like a formality.
Phoenix far outperformed their preseason expectations, and they should be lauded for that. But it was clear from the time of the ball was tipped in Game 1 that they were outmatched against the Thunder. With their 131-122 victory on Monday night, Oklahoma City brought the series to an end.
They'll now face off against the winner of the Los Angeles Lakers' and Houston Rockets' matchup as they try to advance to the Western Conference Finals for the third season in a row.
The implications of their Game 4 victory, therefore, extend far beyond just their victory over the Suns. With Jalen Williams out week-to-week with a hamstring strain, the Thunder will need enhanced contributions across their rotation in order to survive a difficult second-round matchup.
Chet Holmgren's performance on Monday not only answered that call, but also provided a quick response to his doubters after his disappointing outing in Game 3. With Williams out, the Thunder need offensive aggression out of Holmgren, and they got it in boatloads on Monday night.
Chet Holmgren must become a reliable playoff contributor to finally reach his star potential
Holmgren has already reached top form defensively. He finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting this season, the best result that can be expected in a year where Victor Wembanyama is healthy. He averaged 1.9 blocks per game and posted a defensive estimated plus-minus of 3.1 on the season, per Dunks & Threes. You can't ask for much more out of him on that end of the court.
But with Williams out, it was time for Holmgren to step up and be a primary offensive contributor in a playoff setting. In Game 3, he fell flat, posting just 10 points on 5-of-6 shooting from the floor.
In Game 4, he flipped a switch.
In another dominant win for the Thunder, Holmgren posted 24 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists on 9-of-16 shooting from the floor. Although he was less efficient in the second half, making just four of his nine field-goal attempts, he was undeniably aggressive— both searching for his open shots at the perimeter and earning paint touches with quick cuts and matchup exploitations.
Throughout Holmgren's short career, the consistent knock against him has centered around the inconsistencies in his offensive game. At times, he can be too passive with the ball in his hands, looking for an outlet to one of his teammates instead of taking the ball to the rim himself. This playoff run could come to represent a major test of Holmgren's development.
Game 4 was a step in the right direction. With Williams out, the Thunder need everything they can get out of Holmgren. On Monday night, he proved he's up to the task.
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