Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren is listed as questionable for Tuesday night’s road game against the Toronto Raptors due to low back spasms, adding to a growing injury list for the Western Conference leading team.
Holmgren’s status is uncertain ahead of the 6:30 p.m. CST tip-off at Scotiabank Arena, according to reports. He joins teammates Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (abdominal strain), Jalen Williams (right hamstring strain), Ajay Mitchell (abdominal strain and left ankle sprain), and Alex Caruso (left ankle sprain) as questionable or out for the contest. Caruso’s status was upgraded to questionable after initially being listed as out, according to Brandon Rahbar.
The Thunder (44-14) are coming off a statement win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, despite being without several key players. Holmgren contributed 17 points and 15 rebounds in that game. The Raptors (34-23) will welcome back Scottie Barnes, who missed Sunday’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks due to personal reasons.
Holmgren, in his first All-Star season, has been a key defensive presence and rebounder for the Thunder, averaging 17.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game in 51 appearances. His potential absence adds another challenge for a Thunder team already navigating a significant number of injuries.
The Raptors upset the Thunder in their previous meeting in January, winning 103-101. Holmgren had 11 points and 10 rebounds in that game, while Gilgeous-Alexander was available.
The game will be televised on FanDuel Sports Network and streamed on Fubo. Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman predicts a close contest, forecasting a 114-112 Raptors victory.
With Holmgren’s status uncertain, Cason Wallace could witness an increased role for the Thunder. A report from SI.com highlights Wallace’s potential to exceed prop bets, averaging 12.8 points and 4.7 assists in his nine starts this month.