Oklahoma City Thunder big man Chet Holmgren underwent a biological treatment to address a small patellar tendon tear, leaving the team without a third starter for an extended stretch as he faces an 8 to 10-week recovery timeline, nbcsports.com reported.
The procedure, which a league source indicated is platelet-rich plasma therapy, helps Holmgren avoid more invasive surgery to repair the joint. The Thunder stated that Holmgren began experiencing mild discomfort in his right knee following the team’s victory against the Phoenix Suns. After subsequent evaluation, medical tests, and consultations with specialists, the player and the organization decided on the biological treatment plan.
According to nba.com, Holmgren is expected to return to the floor in the first couple of weeks of 2027. His absence compounds a severe roster crunch for Oklahoma City, which entered the season having already traded away depth pieces like Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins, and Isaiah Joe during the offseason for financial reasons.
Mounting Injuries and Roster Shuffles in Oklahoma City
Holmgren is now the third Thunder starter and core defensive presence to sustain a significant injury during the early portion of the schedule. Jalen Williams suffered a dislocated left ankle and a fractured fibula from a hard fall during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers, while Cason Wallace sustained a torn labrum in his left shoulder during the same contest.
Friday brought further medical updates on the team’s depleted rotation. Wallace underwent successful surgery in Los Angeles performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache at the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute, with Thunder medical personnel present.
With multiple frontcourt contributors sidelined, increased floor time and responsibility now fall to Isaiah Hartenstein, Kenrich Williams—who may step into the starting lineup—alongside rookie Aday Mara and veteran Jaylin Williams. To help stabilize the team’s wing depth in the wake of these injuries, the Thunder signed Ochai Agbaji to a contract on Friday.
More on Chet Holmgren
Oklahoma City Thunder's Chet Holmgren underwent treatment Friday to address a small patellar tendon tear and is expected to return to play in 8-to-10 weeks.
