Chet Holmgren sidelined as Thunder prepare for Grizzlies clash
The Oklahoma City Thunder have confirmed that forward/center Chet Holmgren will miss Monday night’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. He joins guard/forwards Alex Caruso and Aaron Wiggins on the sidelines, amplifying the Thunder’s injury challenges.
Game Details
The game is set for Monday, December 22, at 8:30 p.m. CST at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. Fans can catch the action on Peacock and FanDuel Sports Oklahoma, with radio broadcasts available via 92.9 FM ESPN Radio in Memphis and 98.1 FM/640 AM in Oklahoma.
Head-to-Head History
This contest marks the second of three meetings between the Thunder and Grizzlies this season, with Oklahoma City having claimed victory in their first encounter in early November. Historically, the Grizzlies have struggled against the Thunder, holding a 45-88 record in their all-time regular season matchups. Their performance at home sees them at 23-32, while they have fared even worse on the road with a 22-56 record.
Projected Lineups
Grizzlies
G Cedric Coward
G Cam Spencer
C Jaren Jackson Jr.
F Jaylen Wells
F Brandon Clarke
Thunder
G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
G Cason Wallace
C Ben Carlson
F Lugentz Dort
F Jalen Williams
Injury Report
Grizzlies
Brandon Clarke: Out – Calf
Ja Morant: Out – Ankle
Vince Williams: Out – Knee
Zach Edey: Out – Ankle
John Konchar: Out – Thumb
Ty Jerome: Out – Calf
Scotty Pippen Jr.: Out – Toe
Javon Small: Out – Toe
GG Jackson: Out – G League
Thunder
Chet Holmgren: Out – Back
Alex Caruso: Out – Finger
Aaron Wiggins: Out – Adductor
Isaiah Hartenstein: Out – Calf
Jaylin Williams: Out – Heel
Ousmane Dieng: Out – Calf
Thomas Sorber: Out – Knee
Nikola Topic: Out – Cancer
Betting Lines
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the betting spread favors the Thunder at -15.5, while the Grizzlies come in at +15.5. The moneyline sits at Grizzlies +750 and Thunder -1200, with the total points scored set at 234.5 (over -106, under -114).
Coach’s Thoughts
In light of their recent struggles, Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo reflected on the team’s loss to the Washington Wizards. He stated, “We didn’t do the things that lead to winning basketball today. No pace, no ball movement in the second half and then, on top of this, we allowed the other team to bully us and offensive rebound. We’ve been one of the best defensive rebounding teams in the whole league, able to keep the possession game in our favor. Today I think they rebounded 41 or 42 percent of their misses, which is, obviously, unsustainable.”
Looking Ahead
As the Thunder and Grizzlies prepare to meet once again, both teams will need to navigate their injury woes and seek to establish dominance as the season progresses. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both squads as they aim to secure their standings in a competitive Western Conference.
