Thunder’s Chet Holmgren admires LeBron James’ longevity before Lakers series

For the first time in his four-year career, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren will face Los Angeles Lakers All-Star LeBron James in the playoffs. The Thunder will most likely be without Jalen Williams for the best-of-7 series opener. Ahead of Game 1, Holmgren commended James’ 23-year career and the fact that he’s still playing at a high level.

For Holmgren, James’ longevity is a testament to his hard work and focus.

“First of all, it’s very impressive. Growing up, I used to play at Life Time a lot. There were a lot of 41-year-olds that weren’t moving too well. I think that’s extremely impressive. Not only the physical ability, but also the mentality to be that focused and locked in for that long period of time.”

LeBron James led the Lakers in their series-clinching 98-78 win against the Houston Rockets in Game 6. James finished with 28 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds.

Mark Daigneault’s injury update on Thunder’s Jalen Williams

Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault says Jalen Williams has been productive around the team without being active. As Luka Doncic’s potential return looms for the Lakers, the same could be said about Williams, who will have been sidelined for a month ahead of Game 1.

Daigneault reflected on Williams’ impact on the Thunder.

“I think his personality — such a dynamic personality — it can overshadow the fact that he’s a ruthless competitor,” Daigneault said. “He’s a great competitor. There’s never a game that he’s not competing. He plays with a motor every single night. He is a 7 o’clock player. When it’s 7, he’s ready to go. When he’s out, it hurts. I think that’s probably hard for him to turn off.

“And it helps the team. It helps the team stay present. It helps the team stay competitive. He’s a huge personality on the team. So, his presence around us is vitally important.”

The Thunder will officially announce Williams’ status for Game 1 ahead of Tuesday’s series opener.

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