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Oklahoma City Thunder's Chet Holmgren Poised to Shine Against Memphis Grizzlies in Playoff Showdown

As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum, all eyes will be on Chet Holmgren, the standout forward who has consistently delivered impressive performances throughout the playoff series. With his remarkable contributions on both ends of the court, Holmgren is poised to play a pivotal role in this crucial matchup.


MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 24: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies warms up before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Three of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Key Players and Their Impact


Chet Holmgren has been a force for the Thunder, averaging 21 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks over the last three games. His ability to dominate inside and stretch defenses with his shooting makes him a dual threat that Memphis must contend with. In Game 3, Holmgren's efficiency was on full display as he recorded 19 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks with an offensive rating of 155. Holmgren's defensive prowess will be crucial in limiting Memphis' scoring opportunities.


Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to be a reliable scorer for Oklahoma City, averaging 24.3 points per game in this series. His leadership and playmaking abilities are vital for orchestrating the Thunder's offense against a resilient Grizzlies defense.


MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 24: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder rebounds the ball during the game against Memphis Grizzlies during Round One Game Three of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

On the other side of the court, Memphis' Jaren Jackson Jr. has been instrumental for his team, averaging 17.3 points and six rebounds per game while providing solid rim protection with an average of one block per game. His performance in Game 2 was particularly noteworthy as he scored 26 points with an offensive rating of 138.


Strategies for Success


For Oklahoma City to secure victory in this playoff showdown, they must capitalize on their strengths: defensive intensity and efficient ball movement. The Thunder have shown flashes of brilliance when executing their game plan effectively—particularly when they limit turnovers and create open shots through unselfish play.


MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 24: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round One Game Three of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2025 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)

Isaiah Joe's sharpshooting from beyond the arc can provide an additional scoring punch if he finds his rhythm early on. Meanwhile, Jalen Williams' versatility as a forward adds depth to Oklahoma City's lineup; his ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories makes him another key player to watch.


The Grizzlies will rely heavily on Ja Morant's explosive scoring ability; however, containing him will require disciplined perimeter defense from Luguentz Dort and Alex Caruso—both known for their tenacity guarding opposing guards.


As anticipation builds ahead of this high-stakes encounter between two competitive teams vying for postseason glory—the stage is set at FedExForum where fans can catch all action live on TNT or regional networks FDSSE & FDSOK come April 26th at 3:30 PM ET!


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