Chet Holmgren Set to Face Toughest Two-Game Stretch Yet

Amidst an impressive rookie season, Chet Holmgren will have his toughest task yet as Oklahoma City's competition ramps up.

Chet Holmgren has had an incredible start to his rookie season. He’s turned into one of the NBA’s premier young big men just 15 games in and nobody could’ve expected how ready he’d be right away.

He has fit in seamlessly to the Thunder offense and is a perfect fit on the floor with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He’s averaging 17.1 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists on the offensive end while playing with elite efficiency. Holmgren is shooting 55.7% from the floor, 43.4% from 3-point range and 87.7% from the free throw line.

He’s been just as big of a factor on the defensive end of the floor, too. Holmgren has been a legitimate anchor for the Thunder and everything the team was hoping for. The former No. 2 overall pick is averaging 2.3 blocks and 0.9 steals per game and taking on some very difficult matchups.

Heading into the weekend, Holmgren will be tasked with two of the toughest matchups in the NBA. On Saturday night, he’ll try to slow down reigning MVP Joel Embiid who’s off to another impressive start to the 2023-24 season. Directly after, on Tuesday night, Holmgren will have to take on the Timberwolves.

To make matters worse, Holmgren could be without his frontcourt mate Jalen Williams for both contests. He could be alone in the post, which could up his minutes in the process. Squaring off against Embiid, Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns will be quite the test for the Thunder's talented rookie.

So far this season, Holmgren hasn't looked like a rookie whatsoever. His efficiency is unheard of at his age and his poise has been remarkable. He's had four-block performances, 30-plus point games, buzzer-beaters to go into overtime and much more. Oklahoma City has trusted him with so much on the floor and he has continued to respond in a big way.

If there's one person who's excited for the challenge this week, it's Holmgren himself. His competitive spirit is what makes him special.

---

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.