Clemente Almanza: Holmgren's Take On Game 3 Physicality And The Thunder's Response

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Post on May 10, 2025

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Clemente Almanza: Holmgren's Take on Game 3 Physicality and the Thunder's Response

The Oklahoma City Thunder's Game 3 loss to the Denver Nuggets wasn't just about missed shots and turnovers; it was a brutal lesson in playoff physicality. Chet Holmgren's performance, or lack thereof, became a focal point, sparking debate about the rookie's readiness for the NBA postseason intensity. Clemente Almanza, a leading Thunder analyst, offers a nuanced perspective on Holmgren's struggles and the team's overall response to the Nuggets' aggressive defense.

Holmgren's Game 3 Struggles: A Physical Wake-Up Call

Holmgren, the 7-foot-2 center, faced an onslaught of physical play in Game 3. Denver's big men, notably Nikola Jokic, consistently tested his strength and positioning, often resulting in turnovers and missed opportunities. Almanza highlights this point, stating, "Holmgren's inexperience showed. He's incredibly skilled, but the physicality of the playoffs is a different beast altogether. He needs to adapt quickly, and that’s a process." This wasn't just about strength; it was about navigating screens, holding his position, and anticipating the aggressive tactics Denver employed.

The Nuggets' Strategy: A Calculated Approach

The Nuggets' strategy was clear: exploit Holmgren's relative lack of playoff experience and physicality. Almanza points out that this wasn't necessarily dirty play, but a calculated attempt to disrupt the Thunder's offensive flow. "They targeted Holmgren because he's a key component of their offense," Almanza explains. "By making him uncomfortable, they impacted the entire team." This strategic approach underscores the significant difference between regular season basketball and the high-stakes environment of the NBA playoffs.

Thunder's Response: Adapting to the Intensity

While Holmgren struggled, Almanza praises the Thunder's overall response to the physicality. "They didn’t back down. You saw other players step up, taking on the physical challenge. This is valuable experience for the entire team." The team's response showcased resilience and a willingness to adjust their game plan. This adaptation, Almanza suggests, is crucial for their future success in the playoffs and a critical learning experience for the young Thunder squad.

Looking Ahead: Growth and Improvement

The Game 3 loss presented a valuable learning opportunity for Holmgren and the entire Thunder team. Almanza concludes by focusing on the positive aspects: "This experience will shape them. Holmgren will learn to adjust his game, become more physical, and anticipate the type of defense he’ll face in the playoffs. It's a tough lesson, but one that will ultimately make them stronger." The focus moving forward should be on building strength and resilience, not just individual skill. The Thunder's youth is both their challenge and their greatest asset; their journey through this playoff experience is crucial to their long-term development.

Keywords: Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, NBA Playoffs, Game 3, Physicality, Nikola Jokic, Clemente Almanza, Playoffs, NBA, Basketball, Postseason, Rookie, Strength, Resilience, Adaptability.