NBA Futures: Don't Fret, It's Chet

Would it surprise you if I told you my pick for the 2023-2024 NBA Rookie of the Year was drafted in 2022?

I’m going with Chet Holmgren as my ROY pick for a myriad of reasons. I believe that having an extra year to acclimate himself with an NBA organization will be key in helping Chet succeed early on and maintain a consistent level of play. We’ve seen players like Blake Griffin and Ben Simmons miss the first season they were drafted in only to come back the year after and win ROY. This young, ambitious OKC team will make noise this season with Chet being an important asset.

Chet played 6 games in the 2022 NBA Summer League, averaging 14.17 pts, 8.5 reb, 2.67 ast, 1.33 stl, and 3.00 blk, while making over one 3-pointer per game. Chet’s ability to shoot, while also being able to drive closeouts in a system where there will be four other ball handlers and shooters surrounding him will allow him to flourish.

Another key thing to remember for ROY is that a player must play in 65 games to be eligible for the award. I believe this stipulation will hurt Wembanyama’s chances the most, as the Spurs have a history of giving their players “load management.” I realize that Chet and Wemby have similar body types, which comes with heightened injury risk, but I believe with the Thunder in playoff contention, Chet will eclipse 65 games played.

You can bet on Holmgren to win ROY at +500 on Fanduel Sportsbook.