4 Oklahoma City Thunder who earned untouchable status this season

2. Chet Holmgren

Holmgren would be a runaway Rookie of the Year if not for Victor Wembanyama. Both big men are setting a historic pace and remain years away from their peak. Holmgren was the second overall pick in 2022 but missed all of last season with a foot injury. There have been zero ill effects in year two as Holmgren hasn’t missed a game.

The 21-year-old is averaging 17.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.4 blocks in 30.1 minutes each night. He is already a 53.6 percent shooter from the field and 38.4 percent on his threes. Holmgren could be a 50-40-90 player in his prime and is already an elite defender without adding any mass. He will have to put on some muscle to shut down the NBA’s biggest centers, but it should come as he fully matures.

Few expected Holmgren to be this good immediately. There is certainly a budding rival with Wembanyama, which could lead to several postseason showdowns over the next decade-plus. The Thunder and Spurs are both primed to contend when they turn their immense draft capital into talent. Wemby may have the stat edge, but Holmgren is on the superior team.

There is no way the Oklahoma City Thunder are parting with Chet Holmgren. They need a defensive anchor, and won’t find one with his ball-handling and shooting chops, especially at 21 years old.