"Overpay, the dynasty ends here" - NBA fans react to Chet Holmgren's mega $250 million rookie extension with OKC Thunder

Last season, Chet Holmgren played a key part in the OKC Thunder capturing the franchise's first championship. Following a successful 2025 campaign, the former No. 2 pick has been rewarded in a big way.

Since winning the title, the Thunder have been hard at work locking in their core for the future. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently inked a new deal that made history in terms of annual salary. Now, Holmgren finds himself securing a massive payday.

On Wednesday morning, Shams Charania reported that Chet Holmgren and the Thunder have agreed to terms on a max extension off his rookie contract. He is now set to earn upwards of $250 million over five years beginning in 2027.

Following this news, NBA fans flooded social media to give their thoughts on the Thunder giving the versatile forward this massive extension.

As their core players are in line for sizable raises, the majority of fans are skeptical that the Thunder will be able to keep the roster whole long enough to become a dynasty.

Holmgren missed extended time this season due to injury, but was still a crucial piece to the Thunder's success. Last year, he averaged 15.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 2.2 steals.

OKC Thunder could lock down another key player after Chet Holmgren extension

With Chet Holmgren now under a new contract, two members of the OKC Thunder's big three have inked new deals this summer. According to one NBA insider, the front office may not be done handing out lucrative deals to its core.

The only core piece left without an extension is Jalen Williams. He is coming off a career year with OKC, landing All-Star, All-NBA and All-Defense honors. While reporting on Holmgren's new deal, Shams Charania noted that the Thunder and Williams are in the midst of extension talks.

With Chet Holmgren getting a max deal, Williams is more than deserving of being in that same price range. He blossomed into one of the league's top two-way forwards last season. More importantly, he proved to be a viable running mate for SGA as OKC looks to contend for championships for years to come.

About the author

Kevin McCormick is a basketball writer at Sportskeeda with over four years of experience in journalism and a bachelor's degree in Sports Management Marketing from Holy Family University.

Kevin has worked with various notable outlets throughout his career, including 97.3 ESPN, ClutchPoints, Heavy Sports, and Sports Illustrated/FanNation, before joining Sportskeeda in March 2022.

Specializing in NBA and WNBA coverage, Kevin's passion for basketball stems from his hometown team, the Philadelphia 76ers. Among his favorite players are Kevin Durant, Chet Holmgren, and Steph Curry, while his all-time favorites include Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Kevin holds Coach K in high regard for the large input he's had on the game helping mold players across multiple generations. Kevin believes the iconic rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson helped elevate the league to its current status.

Through his writing, Kevin provides in-depth analysis and insights into player and coach quotes. He prioritizes sourcing information from credible and reliable outlets.

Kevin enjoys reading, aiming to finish at least one book per month, and he is a big fan of music.

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