The Oklahoma City Thunder extended their series lead over the Phoenix Suns with a 120-107 win in Game 2.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the scoring with 37 points, continuing his strong postseason form. However, he did not keep the focus solely on himself after the game.
Instead, the 27-year-old used his post-match interview to highlight Chet Holmgren’s influence. His comments underlined the broader impact Holmgren has had on Oklahoma City’s rise in recent years.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander praises Chet Holmgren’s impact
Gilgeous-Alexander pointed directly to Holmgren’s importance after the win, stressing how his presence has shaped the team’s success.
The Canadian star said: “Since the day that Chet Holmgren played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, we’ve been the first seed in the West, and it’s no coincidence. He anchors the best defensive team in the league.”
The remarks reflected how central Holmgren has become to Oklahoma City’s identity.
Holmgren’s Game 2 performance backed that up. He recorded eight rebounds and four blocks, while also contributing 19 points.
The American centre shot 50 percent from three-point range, highlighting his offensive value alongside his defensive presence.
Defensive numbers further underline Holmgren’s influence
Holmgren’s defensive impact is also supported by other detailed metrics from Game 2.
According to ESPN data, the Suns shot just 6-of-16 when he contested their attempts. That 38 percent success rate reflects his ability to disrupt scoring opportunities.
Those numbers clearly reinforce Gilgeous-Alexander’s comments about Holmgren anchoring the defence.
They also underline how his presence continues to shape outcomes beyond traditional box score contributions.
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