5 players who will challenge Victor Wembanyama for Rookie of the Year

Rookie of the Year: F/C Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder

Remember Chet Holmgren? He was a serious contender for Rookie of the Year last season before an injury sidelined him before a minute had been played. That means the Oklahoma City Thunder big man remains eligible for the award.

In some ways, Holmgren feels like the player who could be the most direct competition to Wembanyama. Many of the skills Wembanyama has are shared by Holmgren, with one of the primary differences being the Thunder big man’s comparatively diminutive 7-foot-1 stature.

Health comes up as a concern for obvious reasons with Holmgren, who has always sparked worries with his lanky frame. If he can stay healthy for at least 65 games, his game should be good enough to keep him in the rookie race.

Holmgren has looked very good in the Summer League, averaging 13.7 points and 10.0 rebounds per game in the first three contests, while swatting away nine shots. He should make an immediate impact as a rim protector, even if he struggles against stronger big men. He should also function well in a complimentary role, able to pop threes or move inside with his mobility while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Josh Giddey run the offensive show.

Oklahoma City was knocking on the postseason door a year ago. If Holmgren pushes them over the precipice, he’ll garner serious Rookie of the Year consideration.