The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to kick off their NBA Cup journey against the Phoenix Suns, but both teams are facing significant injury challenges. The Thunder will miss key players including Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, while the Suns will be without stars Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.

As the game approaches, the Thunder appear to have an edge with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams performing well recently. Vegas has adjusted the betting line to favor Oklahoma City by eight points, suggesting confidence in their ability to secure a strong start in the tournament.

Chet Holmgren, the Oklahoma City Thunder forward, suffered a right leg or hip injury during the first quarter against the Golden State Warriors. After contesting a layup by Andrew Wiggins, he fell hard and was unable to put weight on his leg as he was assisted off the court.

Holmgren, who was a Rookie of the Year finalist last season, has been a standout performer this year, averaging 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. His injury comes at a time when the Thunder are already dealing with other player absences in their frontcourt.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are gearing up for a competitive 2024-25 NBA season, but injuries are already posing challenges. Key players Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams are sidelined, while Isaiah Hartenstein is expected to miss several weeks due to a hand injury. Additionally, Nikola Topic will be out for the entire season with an ACL injury.

Despite these setbacks, head coach Mark Daigneault emphasizes a flexible approach to lineups and rotations as they prepare for their season opener against the Denver Nuggets. The Thunder's starting lineup will feature Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Isaiah Joe, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are facing significant challenges in their front court ahead of their season opener against the Denver Nuggets. Key players like Kenrich Williams and Jaylin Williams are sidelined due to injuries, while Isaiah Hartenstein will miss several weeks with a hand injury.

Additionally, Nikola Topic, the team's No. 12 draft pick, is out for the entire season due to an ACL injury. This leaves the Thunder with limited options, forcing coach Mark Daigneault to consider small ball lineups for the game.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are seen as strong contenders for the upcoming season, but injuries are posing significant challenges. Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams are already sidelined with injuries, and now Isaiah Hartenstein has suffered a small fracture in his left hand.

Hartenstein, who was signed to a substantial contract, had been performing well in preseason. His absence will be felt as the Thunder navigate the early part of the season, potentially relying on other players like Dillon Jones and Ousmane Dieng.