Thunder's Chet Holmgren Avoids 'Dangerous' Dynasty Talk

The young star is focused on the present rather than looking too far ahead.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 3:21am

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Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren, 23, is not getting caught up in the hype surrounding his team's potential dynasty. Despite the Thunder's deep core led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and their recent championship, Holmgren is avoiding talk of the team's long-term future, saying he doesn't want to distract himself by "speaking things into existence." The reality is the Thunder's salary cap situation will become challenging as Holmgren and teammate Jalen Williams' max contracts kick in next season, pushing the team deep into the luxury tax.

Why it matters

The Thunder's rapid rise to contention has led to speculation about whether they could become a dynasty, but Holmgren's measured approach shows the team is staying grounded. This mindset is crucial for a young team to maintain focus and avoid complacency, even as external expectations grow.

The details

The Thunder have built an impressive core around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, all of whom are 24 or younger. This trio led the team to a championship last season, sparking talk of a potential dynasty. However, Holmgren is avoiding that discussion, saying he doesn't want to "distract" himself by "speaking things into existence." The reality is the Thunder's salary cap situation will become challenging as Holmgren and Williams' max contracts kick in next season, pushing the team deep into the luxury tax.

  • The Thunder won the NBA championship last season.
  • Holmgren and Williams' max contracts will kick in next season.

The players

Chet Holmgren

A 23-year-old center for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is taking a measured approach to his team's potential dynasty.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The best player on the Oklahoma City Thunder, leading their deep core.

Jalen Williams

A 24-year-old player for the Oklahoma City Thunder who, along with Holmgren, will see his max contract kick in next season.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like that's a dangerous thing to be trying to think about just because how fragile things are in the NBA. We see it all the time. With how quick things can change, and nothing's guaranteed. So you really do have to focus on each individual day.”

— Chet Holmgren

What’s next

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The takeaway

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