Chet Holmgren’s photo will have Thunder fans fired up

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Chet Holmgren’s photo will have Thunder fans fired up

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Paolo Mariano, ClutchPoints | Last updated Aug 10, 2026 2:09 AM ET

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren looked like an injured giraffe in the Western Conference Finals against the San Antonio Spurs last season. It seemed like he suddenly forgot how to play basketball.

Holmgren received heavy backlash due to his anemic performance, which saw his numbers drop significantly as he was manhandled by Victor Wembanyama.

The 24-year-old Holmgren is probably eager to seek vindication and prove to everyone that he is still one of the best youngsters in the NBA.

On Sunday, he posted on Instagram Story a picture of himself in a gym, as shared by the Thunder Wire’s Clemente Almanza, showing that he has been grinding in the offseason. Holmgren has often said he needs to improve his physique to compete better in the interior.

Chet Holmgren in the gym today pic.twitter.com/qguDAWWc6f

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) August 9, 2026

It must be encouraging for the fans to see Holmgren being fully committed ahead of training camp.

Recently, he looked great in a pickup run , as shown in the video posted by the NBA Players Association. He played with the likes of Thunder guard Jared McCain, Washington Wizards guard Trae Young, Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr., Utah Jazz forward Jaren Jackson, and Boston Celtics center Luka Garza, among others.

Chet Holmgren is BACK in the lab getting ready for next season @ChetHolmgren @swishcultures_ pic.twitter.com/9P1mTX2XMC

— The NBPA (@TheNBPA) August 8, 2026

Last season, Holmgren averaged career-highs of 17.1 points, 55.7% shooting, and 8.9 rebounds on top of 1.9 blocks. He earned his first nod to the All-Star Game and was named to the All-NBA Third Team. He was runner-up to Wembanyama for Defensive Player of the Year.

Holmgren is trying to rebuild his body. But more importantly, he is trying to regain his confidence. The Thunder will need him to remain steadfast if they want to return to the NBA Finals and reclaim the throne.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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