Chet Holmgren's Ascension: A Thunderous Fantasy Prospect

In the 2023 NBA draft class, Victor Wembanyama stole the spotlight, hailed as the most electrifying rookie prospect since the legendary LeBron James. Alongside him were Brandon Miller and Scoot Henderson, two talents who, in any other year, would've been top contenders for the first overall pick.

Now, where does Chet Holmgren, the No. 2 overall pick in 2022, stand among this new crop of talent? After missing the entirety of the previous season due to injury, what can we anticipate from his rookie campaign, and where should fantasy basketball enthusiasts place their bets?

Let's dive into the action. Holmgren is set to anchor the Thunder as their starting center. This is a squad that thrives on speed, ranking sixth in the NBA for pace last season. Picture a lineup dominated by guards and wings, with the towering 7-foot-1 Holmgren at its core. The Thunder's center position was somewhat of an open lane last season, and Holmgren fits right into this puzzle, poised to claim minutes and showcase his full potential. His role? To be the defensive linchpin and the team's primary rebounder.

Recalling Holmgren's impressive college stats, where he averaged 9.9 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game, there's a glimmer of hope that these numbers could translate seamlessly to the NBA stage. His return to the Summer League was nothing short of promising, pulling down 9.8 boards and swatting away 3.7 shots per game. So far, it seems his knack for rebounding and shot-blocking remains steadfast.

While not possessing the same towering stature as Wembanyama, Holmgren's 7-foot-1 frame and 7-foot-6 wingspan make him a defensive juggernaut in the making. The lingering question mark has been his weight, but a year off the court has done wonders. Now tipping the scales at 207 pounds, he's shed the frailty that once shadowed him. In today's NBA, where power in the paint takes a backseat, Holmgren's revamped physique should see him make an instant impact.

On the offensive front, Holmgren is tailor-made for the Thunder's up-tempo play style. His deft touch around the rim and proficiency from beyond the arc (shooting an impressive 39.0% in college) make him a versatile scoring threat. Paired with playmakers like Gilgeous-Alexander and Giddey, who excel at breaking down defenses, Holmgren is poised to rack up points from all angles.

Anticipate him averaging in the mid-teens with a three-pointer per game. This, combined with his formidable defensive prowess, projects Holmgren as a top-75 player right from the get-go. His defensive and rebounding abilities may even give Wembanyama a run for his money among this season's rookies.

Currently, Holmgren sits at third place in preseason fantasy projections for rookies, trailing Wembanyama and the sharpshooting Scoot Henderson. However, with a more offense-friendly supporting cast and an extra year of maturity, don't be surprised if Holmgren emerges as the standout rookie of the class.

With an ADP of 65.6 in the seventh round, drafting Holmgren in that range is a savvy move. Who knows? It might just turn out to be a steal for the future NBA Rookie of the Year frontrunner. Keep your eyes peeled for this rising star's journey with the Thunder!

FOR QUESTIONS [email protected]