Thunder's Chet Holmgren Nears Return for Nuggets Showdown

Second-year center could make comeback after missing last game with flu

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren, who missed the team's previous game with the flu, is listed as questionable for Monday's matchup against the Denver Nuggets. Holmgren, an All-Star in his second NBA season, recorded a career-high 21 rebounds in the Thunder's overtime win over the Nuggets last week. The 7-footer discussed the importance of continuing to get stronger and healthier as he develops his game.

Why it matters

Holmgren's potential return is significant for the Thunder, who are looking to avenge their recent overtime loss to the Nuggets. The second-year big man has emerged as a key piece for Oklahoma City, making his first All-Star team this season.

The details

Holmgren missed the Thunder's win over the Golden State Warriors due to the flu but could be back in the lineup against the Nuggets. In addition to Holmgren, the Thunder have several other injury concerns, with Jalen Williams (right hamstring) and Isaiah Hartenstein (left calf contusion) both ruled out. However, second-year guard Ajay Mitchell is cleared to return from an abdominal strain and left ankle sprain that has sidelined him since January.

  • Holmgren recorded a career-high 21 rebounds in the Thunder's overtime win over the Nuggets last week.
  • Holmgren missed the Thunder's win over the Warriors on March 9, 2026 due to the flu.

The players

Chet Holmgren

A 7-foot center in his second NBA season with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Holmgren made his first All-Star team this year and is a key part of the team's future.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Thunder's All-Star guard, who led the team to a win over the Warriors while Holmgren was out.

Jalen Williams

A second-year forward for the Thunder who is currently sidelined with a right hamstring injury.

Isaiah Hartenstein

A Thunder center dealing with a left calf contusion, keeping him out of the lineup.

Ajay Mitchell

A second-year guard for the Thunder who is cleared to return after missing time with an abdominal strain and left ankle sprain.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I try to put a lot into my body, making sure that I continue to get stronger every time. Continue to stay as healthy as I can. Take care of myself.”

— Chet Holmgren (Twitter)

“I definitely think that's paid off for me, and I've gotten better in a lot of different areas, but I think I still got a long way to go with my body; with my game. I don't want to let one night excite me much. I still got work to do.”

— Chet Holmgren (Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Holmgren's potential return is a significant boost for the Thunder as they look to avenge their recent overtime loss to the Nuggets. The young center's continued development and commitment to his physical conditioning have been key to his breakout second season in the NBA.