Chet Holmgren Has the Makings of an NBA Star
Former No. 2 overall pick Chet Holmgren is set to make his return to the hardwood on Monday after a months-long wait.
The Thunder’s unicorn-esque hybrid missed his technical first season due to a Lisfranc foot injury, but will make his return to the court against the Utah Jazz in the 2023 NBA Summer League. He'll join the likes of Victor Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson, Amen and Ausar Thompson and more as a rookie this upcoming season.
Inside the Thunder and Draft Digest writer Derek Parker recently broke down Holmgren’s college tape on his YouTube channel for those needing a refresher:
At 7-foot with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, Holmgren is one of the more elite defensive prospects to pass through the draft ranks in years. He has impeccable defensive timing and anticipation, and when coupled with his high basketball IQ, it makes him one of the more potent shot-blocking prospects in decades.
Offensively, he functions well as a rim-runner, floor-spacer and transition threat, but has some untapped creation and playmaking skills lying in wait, as was showcased in last year’s Salt Lake City slate.
While missing out on what was supposed to be his debut season obviously wasn't a positive, Holmgren's now had one full year in an NBA organization, which did wonders for the games of Ben Simmons, Blake Griffin and more, who missed their first season due to injury, too.
Holmgren, flanked by Jalen Williams, Ousmane Dieng, Jaylin Williams, Jared Butler, Tre Mann and more. The Thunder and Jazz tip off at 8 p.m.
Want to join the discussion? Like Inside the Thunder on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest Thunder news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.