Almanza Reports: Holmgren Addresses Physicality Challenges In Thunder's Game 3

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Post on May 11, 2025

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Almanza Reports: Holmgren Addresses Physicality Challenges in Thunder's Game 3

The Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 3 loss to the [Opponent Name] highlighted a recurring theme: the physicality mismatch Chet Holmgren faces. While the young center showcased flashes of brilliance, his struggles against more established, physical big men continue to be a key storyline for the team. Post-game reports from Thunder beat writer, Eduardo Almanza, shed light on Holmgren's own assessment of his performance and how the team plans to address these challenges moving forward.

Holmgren's Honest Self-Assessment:

Almanza's report reveals Holmgren’s candid acknowledgment of the physical challenges he faced. "They were definitely more physical than I anticipated," Holmgren reportedly stated. "I need to be stronger, and I need to be more aggressive in terms of positioning myself." This self-awareness is a crucial step in the young player's development, indicating a willingness to learn and adapt to the NBA's demanding physicality. The report highlights Holmgren's commitment to improving his strength and post moves to better compete against larger, more experienced opponents.

Addressing the Physicality Gap:

The Thunder coaching staff, according to Almanza, is actively working on strategies to mitigate the physical disadvantage Holmgren faces. This includes:

• Increased Strength and Conditioning: The report emphasizes an intensified focus on Holmgren's strength and conditioning program, designed to build muscle mass and improve his ability to withstand physical contact.
• Tactical Adjustments: The coaching staff is reportedly exploring tactical adjustments to better utilize Holmgren's unique skillset while minimizing his exposure to excessive physical play. This may include deploying him in specific matchups or adjusting offensive sets to create easier scoring opportunities.
• Mentorship and Experience: Almanza’s report suggests that the Thunder are leveraging the experience of veteran players on the roster to mentor Holmgren, offering guidance on navigating the physical battles inherent in the NBA.

Beyond the Box Score:

While the box score might not fully reflect Holmgren's impact, Almanza's reporting highlights the subtle contributions he makes. His defensive awareness, shot-blocking ability, and floor-spacing remain valuable assets. The focus, however, remains on bolstering his physical capabilities to unlock his full potential.

Looking Ahead:

The Thunder’s playoff journey is far from over. The team's commitment to Holmgren's development, as evidenced by Almanza’s report, is a testament to their long-term vision. The physical challenges he faces are a significant hurdle, but the steps being taken – increased training, tactical adjustments, and mentorship – suggest a proactive approach to addressing this key aspect of Holmgren's game. The next few games will be crucial in observing the tangible results of these efforts and will be closely followed by Almanza and other Thunder beat writers. The focus remains on Holmgren's progress and the team's ability to adapt their strategy to maximize his impact while protecting him from excessive physical punishment. The Thunder's success may well hinge on their ability to navigate this challenge effectively.