Thunder Topple Pacers Behind Chet Holmgren's Monster Night

The Thunder toppled the Pacers in Wednesday night’s Las Vegas action behind big performances from the team’s top prospects. Oklahoma City lit up the scoreboard, coming away with a 98-87 win over Indiana.

OKC only knocked down six triples, but managed to be a bucket away from triple digits. The Thunder got great looks in the half court and relied on a patient offense with baskets around the rim. Overall, the team shot 40-of-76 from the floor and allowed its prospects to shine.

Here’s who led the Thunder to victory:

Chet Holmgren

Holmgren’s full potential was on display Wednesday night, capitalizing on his best performance of the summer session. He was dominant on both ends of the floor, and really showed the pick-and-roll dynamic he brings to the offense.

The big man poured in 25 points, nine rebounds, two assists and five blocks in Oklahoma City’s win over Indiana. He shot 9-of-15 from the floor and 7-of-8 from the free throw line in the dominating performance. Holmgren finished lobs around the rim and always floated off the roll into the right spot, allowing Oklahoma City’s guards to find him under the basket for easy jams. With a point guard like Josh Giddey, those opportunities are only going to increase when the regular season begins.

The only thing missing from Holmgren’s game so far is his 3-point shot, but that will come in time. He was 0-for-2 from deep Tuesday night, but looks like he’s still getting his legs back under him after missing a full season. His efficiency at the free throw line should put worries about his jumpshot to rest.

Ousmane Dieng

Oklahoma City’s 2022 lottery pick flashed in a big way Wednesday night. Dieng has put together a fantastic all-around Summer League showing and it all came together against the Pacers.

The forward stuffed the stat sheet with 22 points, nine rebounds, six assists and a steal, while committing just one turnover. He was 9-of-11 from the floor and 3-of-4 from 3-point range. Dieng looked extremely comfortable on the court and was smooth in all aspects of the game. With more time and reps, the 6-foot-10 playmaker could be a special player. At just 20 years old, his potential is through the roof, and the summer session has been a great reminder of that.

Keyontae Johnson

The Kansas State product continues to impress off the bench for the Thunder. After signing a two-way contract following draft night, Johnson has impacted every game he’s played in.

He added 18 points, three rebounds and a steal in Oklahoma City’s victory, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. Johnson logged 26 minutes and finished the game 7-of-9 shooting with elite efficiency. It’s early on in the process, but it wouldn’t be surprising if he outplays his two-way spot at some point in the future.

Jared Butler

Butler has been a consistent contributor in both Salt Lake City and Vegas this summer. He distributed the ball well and had an impact in the scoring department Wednesday night.

He added 18 points and seven assists while recording a plus-11 on the floor for the Thunder. Butler drilled two triples and ran the pick-and-roll effectively with Oklahoma City’s high flying forwards. It was another efficient game for the point guard.

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