The Oklahoma City Thunder will get a welcome boost to their rotation Friday night, as both Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso have been cleared to return for the team’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings. The news comes at an important moment for Oklahoma City, which is looking to bounce back after its franchise-record 8–0 start was snapped earlier this week.
The Thunder suffered their first loss of the season on Wednesday, falling on the road to the Portland Trail Blazers in a narrow two-point defeat. Despite missing four key contributors, Oklahoma City remained competitive behind another standout performance from reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He finished with 35 points, nine rebounds and four assists, spearheading a roster that leaned heavily on reserve players.
Inserted into the starting lineup because of numerous injuries, Aaron Wiggins and Ajay Mitchell combined for 48 points to keep the Thunder within striking distance until the final possession. However, Wiggins will not be available tonight after being ruled out with an adductor strain.
In addition to Holmgren and Caruso returning, the Thunder may also regain defensive specialist Luguentz Dort, who is listed as questionable after sitting out Wednesday’s game. Jalen Williams, the team’s No. 2 scorer last season, remains sidelined and has yet to make his season debut.
Even so, the reinstatement of Holmgren and Caruso provides Oklahoma City with a much-needed talent infusion. Holmgren, whose rim protection and efficient scoring were instrumental during the 8–0 start, immediately upgrades the frontcourt. Caruso, one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders, gives the Thunder stability in the backcourt and helps ease the workload on Gilgeous-Alexander.
The Thunder continue their four-game road trip with tonight’s test against Sacramento, followed by a visit to the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday. They return home Tuesday to host the Golden State Warriors.
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