Chet Holmgren is currently dominating his rookie year while averaging 18 points, eight rebounds, three assists and shooting 43 percent from the 3-point line. Holmgren is a 7-foot-1 big man who can run the floor like a stretch forward, but also shoot the lights out of an arena like Steph Curry. Having his rookie season end early due to a foot injury, Holmgren is looking at this season to prove his skills and impact in the NBA compared to other huge stars.
Outshining other stars
Holmgren recently faced off against the San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama, a fellow rookie sensation and the 2023 No. 1 overall pick. Holmgren easily proved he was the best rookie in the game. While only scoring 9 points, he dominated on the defensive end and shut down Wembanyama, holding him to just eight points on 15 field-goal attempts.
Holmgren is also the leader for most blocks in Oklahoma City Thunder history with 13 blocks recorded in an NBA game.
Related:Victor Wembanyama’s Summer League performances
Holmgren has the clutch gene
Many NBA players can perform in the first 47 minutes of a game. However, stars shine brightest in close games in the final minute of the fourth quarter.
In late-game moments this season, Holmgren has shown up in a major way shooting a red-hot 48 percent from 3, and 90 percent from the free throw line.
Holmgren is proving he belongs in the NBA. He has the requisite attributes and athleticism among some of the best rookies the NBA has ever seen. If the early portion of this season is foreshadowing of things to come, barring injuries, Holmgren may be in the conversation of some of the best big men the game has ever seen.
