With the No. 2 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder selected big man, Chet Holmgren. Unfortunately, Holmgren was unable to get on the court during his first season, making the 2023-24 campaign his rookie year.
He has proven to be worth the wait as Holmgren has helped the Thunder take that next step in their development. Oklahoma City is right in the thick of the race in the Western Conference for the No. 1 seed with a record of 40-17, tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves for first place.
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is garnering MVP consideration, the production of Holmgren cannot be understated. He has been incredible, as he and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs are locked in one of the most competitive Rookie of the Year races in NBA history.
Both players are certainly deserving of the recognition. On the season, Holmgren is averaging 17.1 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.6 blocks in 30.1 minutes per game. He has started all 57 games he has played in and quickly cemented his status as a foundational piece moving forward.
The production that Holmgren is providing in his rookie season is unlike any we have seen before. In fact, he has already accomplished something that no other rookie in NBA history has ever done.
Holmgren has already recorded 100 3-pointers and 151 blocks this season. According to NBA History on X, he is the first rookie to reach those plateaus in a season as he is putting together an all-time memorable performance.
On the season, Holmgren is knocking down 40.4 percent of his 3-point attempts, as his shooting prowess is an important part of Oklahoma City’s success. Defensively, despite his slight frame, he is already a difference-maker at the rim.
While Holmgren is the first to reach those plateaus, he won’t be the last. As long as Wembanyama remains healthy, he will also record 100+ 3-pointers this season, as he already has 171 blocks.
Those two are going to be tied together throughout their NBA careers for the unique skill sets they bring to the court. Both are emerging stars, looking to bring their respective teams to the level of contenders sooner than later.
More must-reads: