As NBA’s biggest stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, among others, are approaching the tail end of their iconic careers, rising stars like the Oklahoma City Thunder’s power forward Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama are beginning to claim the spotlight.
The 2022 OKC draft pick, who had to wait until the 2023/2024 season to enjoy his rookie year due to injury, has recorded remarkable outputs on the court, inspiring the team’s impressive season start. He has also made a big statement that appears to affect the NBA’s Rookie ladder currently.
Chet Holmgren overtakes Victor Wembanyama
Entering into the current season, no rookie enjoyed the hype that surrounded Wemby of the San Antonio Spur. While the season progresses, with several games already played, Holmgren seems to be making a big statement for himself. The OKC Thunder’s young star, Chet Holmgren, has overtaken Spurs’ star Victor Wembanyama for the top spot in the KIA Rookie ladder.
As revealed by NBA.com, Chet Holmgren tops the three-star list, with Victor Wembanyama coming second and Ausar Thompson being the third. As the new season kicked off, there were high expectations for Victor Wembanyama to clinch the prestigious award, as he was already honored as the best prospect.
Chet Holmgren made his debut in the current 2023-2024 season, showcasing advanced playing skills for his size, elite shooting at his position, a lethal option in the pick and roll, and defensive prowess, positioning him as a vital member of the Thunder’s roster. With Chet’s achievements, it’s evident that the young star lives up to the hype.
Despite Victor being impressive with 18.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 2.6 blocks at 42% shooting from the floor, 27% from distance, and 78% at the charity stripe, Chet’s performance looks more exceptional for him to be at the top.
Chet Holmgren’s performances for OKC Thunder this season
Chet Holmgren, after his Gonzaga basketball career, was drafted by the Thunder but missed the 2022-2023 season due to a Lisfranc Fracture. Holmgren had to exercise patience for his debut in the current 2023-2024 season, which has kicked off impressively for the young star.
Chet Holmgren’s first season has been so impressive, that in the latest NBA Rookie ladder, Chet tops another league’s finest player Victor Wembanyama, owing to his recent 36 points against the Warriors. Chet Holmgren, in 15 matchups for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has averaged a stunning 17.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game, while shooting 55.7% overall and 43.4% from 3-point range.
As the race for the Rookie of the Year heats up, with a surprise name on top of the list, fans and observers anticipate the winner of this prestigious award at the end of the season. If Chet clinches the award, discussions may arise comparing his situation to Wembanyama’s, considering the Spurs are in a rebuilding stage without highly talented rookies on the roster. Meanwhile, the Thunder boast a lineup of superstars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Luguentz Dort, which could impact Chet’s level of output.
