Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti defended center Chet Holmgren following the team's Western Conference Finals defeat to the San Antonio Spurs. Presti emphasized Holmgren's value to the franchise during an end-of-season interview. The comments came after Holmgren's struggles in the series against Victor Wembanyama.
Presti stated that Holmgren remains a key part of the team. 'Chet's one of our guys,' he said. 'He's been so impactful. He drives winning on so many different levels for us.' Holmgren averaged 17.1 points, 8.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks during the regular season. He earned his first All-Star selection and an All-NBA Third Team nod. The Thunder had swept the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers before facing the Spurs. Presti noted Holmgren's history as an underdog and his intrinsic motivation. He added that such setbacks are part of the path for players who improve over time. The Thunder lost Game 7 at home, where Holmgren scored just four points. Presti indicated the team is unlikely to break up its core group including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams.
