Since returning to action for the Thunder, Holmgren is averaging 13.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game in just 26.1 minutes per contest, with the team preferring to keep him fresh in preparation for the deep playoff run they intend to have.

While the focus might be on Jokic and his MVP battle against Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder got some massive news ahead of the Monday night matchup. For the first time since his injury in early November, star big man Chet Holmgren will be available for both games in a back-to-back, according to Rylan Stiles.

Telling reporters afterward that he's "playing the best basketball of my life," Denver star Nikola Jokic had 35 points, 18 rebounds and eight assists, as his Nuggets defeated the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder 140-127 on Monday night.