The Oklahoma City Thunder’s Summer League roster isn’t that far off from their actual roster, which — in this particular case — is actually quite encouraging.
As expected, all eyes were set on last year’s No. 2 pick, Chet Holmgren, who missed his entire rookie season with a foot injury.
Notably, the Gonzaga product lived up to the expectations, balling out with 15 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks, prompting plenty of reactions on social media.
He’s going to be a big problem for the rest of the league.
— Faisal Hassan (@Faazzla) July 4, 2023
https://twitter.com/Ayman1_1_/status/1676099660694560768
seems good
— WADDDDI ® (@allen_448749661) July 4, 2023
https://twitter.com/hahaha15815/status/1676151650971688966
Holmgren’s ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor has never been in doubt.
He can put the ball on the floor, lead the break, dominate both sides of the glass, knock down shots from all three levels, and swat shots into the stands.
While his upside isn’t as high as Victor Wembanyama’s, he’s perhaps the closest player to him in terms of that uniqueness and unicorn style of play.
But — just like with Wembanyama — there will always be some red flags and injury concerns with him, which is why he didn’t go No. 1 overall last season.
Needless to say, the fact that he couldn’t even play in his first season after suffering a non-contact injury sounded off the alarms, so it’s nice to see him bounce back now that he’s at full strength.
The Thunder flirted with playoff contention for most of last season, and they will now have another prime player for years to come.
The future is bright in Oklahoma and, barring injury, it won’t be long before this team makes some serious noise.
NEXT: Josh Giddey Makes Sure To Hype Up Chet Holmgren
