Draymond Green Defends Chet Holmgren Amid Trade Debate After Thunder Exit

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s postseason run came to a disappointing end in the Western Conference Finals, but the conversation surrounding the franchise has only intensified since their elimination. Much of the focus has centered on Chet Holmgren, whose struggles against the San Antonio Spurs sparked debate about his future with the organization.

Holmgren faced significant challenges in the series, particularly when matched up against Victor Wembanyama and San Antonio’s frontcourt. As Oklahoma City failed to advance to the NBA Finals, criticism quickly followed, with some analysts questioning whether the Thunder should consider moving on from the talented big man.

Among those discussions were suggestions that Oklahoma City could explore trade options involving Holmgren. Critics pointed to his inconsistent production during the conference finals as evidence that the Thunder may need a different approach if they hope to take the next step toward a championship.

Not everyone agrees with that assessment. Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green has emerged as one of Holmgren’s strongest defenders, arguing that reactions to a single playoff series are being blown out of proportion and could lead to poor long-term decisions.

1. Green Pushes Back Against Critics

Speaking on his podcast, Green strongly rejected the notion that Oklahoma City should entertain trading Holmgren. The four-time NBA champion acknowledged that criticism comes with postseason disappointment but said the conversation has gone far beyond reasonable analysis. According to Green, labeling Holmgren as a player who should be moved after one difficult playoff matchup ignores everything he has accomplished in his young career. He believes the criticism has become excessively reactionary and fails to account for the bigger picture. Green argued that many organizations make mistakes when they allow public pressure to dictate personnel decisions. In his view, successful franchises maintain confidence in their core players rather than making dramatic changes after a temporary setback. The Warriors forward suggested that moving on from Holmgren now would represent the kind of short-sighted thinking that prevents teams from building sustainable contenders. Instead, he believes Oklahoma City should remain committed to its long-term vision and continue developing around its young stars.

2. A Resume That Demands Patience

Green’s defense of Holmgren is supported by a résumé that already compares favorably with many established veterans. Despite being only a few years into his NBA career, Holmgren has earned recognition as one of the league’s most impactful two-way players. During the 2025-26 season, Holmgren delivered the strongest campaign of his career. He posted personal bests in points and rebounds while continuing to provide elite rim protection and floor spacing, two qualities that have become increasingly valuable in today’s NBA. His season was recognized through several major honors. Holmgren earned an All-Star selection, received All-NBA Third Team recognition, and secured a place on the All-Defensive First Team. He also finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting, highlighting his influence on one end of the floor. For Green, those accomplishments should carry more weight than a difficult playoff series. While postseason performances often shape public perception, he believes evaluating a player’s future based solely on one matchup overlooks a much larger body of work.

3. Thunder Face Important Decision

The debate surrounding Holmgren reflects the high expectations now facing Oklahoma City. After establishing itself as one of the Western Conference’s top teams, the Thunder are no longer judged simply on potential. The focus has shifted toward winning championships. That increased pressure naturally creates scrutiny when key players underperform in critical moments. Holmgren’s struggles against the Spurs became a major storyline because Oklahoma City entered the series with legitimate hopes of reaching the NBA Finals. However, the organization must decide whether short-term disappointment should alter its long-term plans. Holmgren remains just 24 years old, an age at which many NBA stars are still developing their games and learning from postseason setbacks. The Thunder’s front office appears to have assembled one of the league’s strongest young foundations, and Holmgren remains a central piece of that core. Combined with his individual accolades, statistical growth, and previous championship experience, there are strong arguments that patience—not panic—offers the best path forward.