The Oklahoma City Thunder didn’t hesitate to take a chance and draft Chet Holmgren with the No. 2 pick last season.
It didn’t pay off right away, as the Gonzaga product wasn’t even able to make his debut last season because of a foot injury he suffered during the offseason.
So, now that he’s set to play in his first season in the league, NBA analyst Russell Dorsey believes he’s got a big edge to win NBA Rookie of the Year honors over the likes of, say, Victor Wembanyama, Brandon Miller, or Scoot Henderson.
Could Chet Holmgren win Rookie of the Year over Victor Wembanyama or Brandon Miller?🤔🏀@Russ_Dorsey1 explains why Holmgren may win it. @RIP_JEP | @BallySports | #TheRally pic.twitter.com/03QaQWbWUo
— The Rally (@TheRally) July 4, 2023
When asked about that, Dorsey claimed that — unlike the others — Holmgren has already ‘been in the building,’ as in he’s gotten to watch film, hit the gym, get a hold of the NBA-style workout and nutrition, and whatnot.
Moreover, he believes that Holmgren will have less pressure on his shoulders because of the impressive and competitive young core Sam Presti has orchestrated.
Holmgren’s skills have never been put into doubt or question, but his health has always been a major reason for concern, given his rather lanky frame.
Obviously, getting hurt and missing your entire rookie season with a non-contract injury won’t do a lot to change that narrative, but it seems like he’s back to full strength and even stronger now.
He’s dominated the game at every stage but the NBA, and his Summer League debut was quite encouraging ahead of what might be a Rookie of the Year race like we have never seen in the history of the Association.
NEXT: Fans React To Chet Holmgren's Summer League Performance
