Chet Holmgren’s Case For Rookie Of The Year Looks Beyond His Stats

(CTN News) – Rookie of the Year isn’t usually decided by Chet Holmgren winning, but this season could be different.

During their second matchup of the season, Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama competed for the honor of the NBA’s top rookie. Thunder rookies again made their case for the top rookie honor on Wednesday in San Antonio, 140-114.

Wembanyama’s highlights and flashy plays are sure to garner more attention than Chet Holmgren, but their matchup exemplifies what makes this season’s race so special. Aside from his 24 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks, the Spurs’ star had flashes where he looked like the best on the floor.

A 7-footer for the Thunder scored 17 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and blocked three shots. Despite Wembanyama’s better numbers, Chet Holmgren’s impact on the Thunder’s 26-point win and 31-13 record cannot be overstated.

Holmgren has transformed Oklahoma City on a number of levels after the team lacked a reliable presence down low for a number of seasons. In the past season, Oklahoma City had a major success by sneaking into the play-in tournament. Still, the addition of a 7-footer who can do almost anything has been a significant difference-maker for the team as it now sits at the top of the Western Conference standings.

The Thunder center is averaging 17.1 points and 7.3 rebounds through 44 games while ranking fourth in blocks per game. Chet Holmgren, however, made his case for Rookie of the Year in a New York Times interview last season.

Holmgren said, “We’re not losing every game by 30 points.”. “I’m not Superman.”. It’s just a matter of figuring out what I can do to improve this team by five points.

Compared to the Thunder’s net rating over the last two seasons, the Gonzaga product has delivered on that promise. This season, the Thunder are outscoring opponents by 7.3 points more per 100 possessions with him on the floor.

Despite the fact that Oklahoma City’s impressive improvement is not due solely to Holmgren, Chet Holmgren play has defined the team’s approach this season. As a result, the Thunder have defined Chet Holmgren chances of winning Rookie of the Year.

Would you like to participate in the discussion? Become a fan of Inside the Thunder on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for all the latest Thunder news. Meet the team behind the coverage as well.

SEE ALSO:

The No. 8 Auburn Basketball Team Lost To Alabama 79-75