The Oklahoma City Thunder are trying to take full control of this NBA Playoffs series against the Dallas Mavericks. Both teams are making big runs and continually executing big efforts to notch the lead. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his squad might be lagging behind at the moment. But, it looks like one guy who goes by the name of Chet Holmgren is willing to go the extra mile. He even looked like one of those 30 dudes who could possibly transition into the NFL that Austin Rivers proclaimed.

Every possession counts in the NBA Playoffs. Each play could potentially be momentum-changing. So, diving and reaching for balls are very crucial. Chet Holmgren knows this and it's also why he made a big effort to save the Thunder's possession by looking like an NFL wide receiver in one of his plays.

Jaylin Williams' pass to his fellow Thunder big man was already impressive. The fact that Chet Holmgren mossed Daniel Gafford and PJ Washington then made it more special. To add icing on the cake, he also sank the shot from downtown to beat the buzzer at the end of the quarter.

Do you think this is enough to merit Holmgren a position in Austin Rivers' NFL squad?

The Thunder struggle to stay afloat

May 7, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren (7) celebrates after a basket against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half of game one of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports
© Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

This Thunder squad is looking for answers and they are finding it at some points in this NBA Playoffs clash against the Mavericks. As of writing, they are still behind 85 to 95 with some minutes left in the third quarter. Shai Gilgeous Alexander is leading the Thunder in all major statistical categories.

The Most Valuable Player finalist knocked down 11 out of his 19 shots from the field and sank all four of his free throws for 26 points. He also dropped eight assists while just committing one turnover. His insane all-around performance also does not end there. SGA is also leading the Thunder in the battle of the boards with seven rebounds.

Only Jalen Williams has managed to break double-digit scoring numbers for the Thunder. He has 16 points while Holmgren is currently sitting at nine points. If all goes well, the Thunder could have seven players in double-digit points by the end of the game.