Oklahoma City Thunder’s big man Chet Holmgren has hit the ground running in his second NBA season, averaging 23 points and 15 rebounds while shooting 52.8% from the floor through two games. He aims to maintain this strong performance as the Thunder open their home schedule against the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday.
Holmgren’s excellence is matched by the Thunder’s defense, which currently leads the NBA, allowing just 91 points per game. However, the team has struggled with three-point shooting, making only 16 of 76 attempts (21.1%), ranking just above the Indiana Pacers.
Sunday’s game is part of a back-to-back for the Thunder, who secured a 114-95 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. The Thunder are eyeing their first 3-0 start since the 2016-17 season. For the Hawks, their last 3-0 start was in the 2020-21 season.
Trae Young has been outstanding for Atlanta, averaging 34 points and 11 assists, making him the second player in NBA history to start a season with consecutive games of at least 30 points and 10 assists, alongside Oscar Robertson in 1961-62. In Friday’s 125-120 win over Charlotte, Young recorded 38 points, 10 assists, eight rebounds, and four steals.
Young is working on becoming more well-rounded, improving his defense, and maintaining his aggressive offense. He averages 2.5 steals, five turnovers, and is shooting 45% from the floor and 35% from beyond the arc. His free-throw accuracy has also been impressive, making 25 of 29 attempts, contributing to Atlanta’s average of 42 free-throw attempts per game. In comparison, Oklahoma City averages just 16 attempts.
Last season, the teams split their two meetings, each winning at home. Sunday’s matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams aim to continue their strong starts.
