Thunder's Big 3 Out vs. Nuggets: SGA, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren Sidelined

OKC rests key players ahead of playoffs with injury management and back issues

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets, with the players' forms broken down into abstract geometric shapes and planes of color, the court and arena fading into the background.The Thunder's decision to rest their star players against the Nuggets reflects the team's strategic focus on the playoffs rather than regular season dominance.Denver Today

The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without their star trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren for their Friday matchup against the Denver Nuggets. Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams are out due to injury management, while Holmgren is sidelined with back problems. The Thunder, who have the best record in the league, are prioritizing rest for their core players as they prepare for the NBA Playoffs.

Why it matters

The Thunder's decision to rest their top players highlights the team's focus on postseason success rather than chasing regular season wins. With the playoffs around the corner, OKC is taking a cautious approach to ensure their stars are healthy and rested for the championship push.

The details

The Thunder announced on Thursday that Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Holmgren will all miss the game against the Nuggets. Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams are being held out for injury management, while Holmgren is dealing with a back issue. Despite having the best record in the league, the Thunder are prioritizing the long-term health of their core players over short-term regular season results.

  • The Thunder will play their final regular season game on Sunday against the Phoenix Suns.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Thunder's star point guard and leading scorer, who is being held out for injury management.

Jalen Williams

The Thunder's second-year forward, who is also out due to injury management.

Chet Holmgren

The Thunder's promising young center, who is sidelined with a back injury.

Denver Nuggets

The Thunder's opponent on Friday, who will face a depleted OKC roster.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Thunder will play their final regular season game on Sunday against the Phoenix Suns before turning their full attention to the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Thunder's decision to rest their top players against the Nuggets underscores the team's long-term focus on postseason success rather than chasing regular season wins. By prioritizing the health and recovery of their stars, OKC is positioning itself for a deep playoff run.