During the 2023 NBA Summer League, fans witnessed a flurry of future talents. Notable among them is Chet Holmgren. The 7 ‘1 star missed his entire rookie season last year due to a season-ending injury. However, the big man found his way back recently and produced an outstanding performance in Vegas. Notably, he grabbed the attention of a Boston Celtics legend, who showered him with praise in a recent show.
The Thunder picked Holmgren as #2 in the 2022 NBA draft. Unfortunately, he injured himself before making his NBA debut. The 21-year-old sustained a Lisfranc injury while defending LeBron James in the Seattle pro-am game. He took the entire season to recover from his injury and packed some pounds before his strong comeback. Importantly, he did return strong, as claimed by this 2008 NBA champion.
Chet Holmgren impressed a Celtics legend with his comeback
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After missing his rookie season, Chet Holmgren made his return to the NBA world in a Summer League game against the Utah Jazz. The rising star didn’t disappoint as he delivered a sound package upon his return. Moreover, the star’s return also grabbed the attention of a former MVP and Defensive Player of the Year. The 7-foot giant stood tall among his teammates and grabbed the Celtics legend’s attention.
In the recent episode of KG Verified, Kevin Garnett visited the NBA Summer League arena. While there, the $125 million worth star engaged in a quick chat with the 21-year-old. The 2004 NBA MVP revealed how he spotted the difference in the rising star compared to his previous year.
He praised Holmgren’s defensive output in the Thunder’s opening game against the Jazz. Moreover, he excitedly added, “Bro you blocking everything, f*cking blocking everything!”
The Oklahoma City Thunder star gracefully replied, “Yessir I learned it from somebody,” pointing back at KG.
KG: “Bro you blocking everything, f*cking blocking everything.”
Chet: “Yessir I learned it from somebody.”
*Points to KG*
This exchange between Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren and Kevin Garnett is awesome 🤝⛈️
(via @shobasketball)pic.twitter.com/tDjExFegv7
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) July 19, 2023
With his improved production, the former Gonzago player has been raising eyebrows all summer. Fans of OKC are beaming to see him suit up in Paycom Center.
Read More – “WTF Kinda….Nah”: Wild Video of Strange Sport Leaves Celtics Legend Kevin Garnett and Thousands in Disbelief
With the 2023-24 season right around the corner, will Holmgren play in the starting lineup?
Thunder’s run in the upcoming season
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The Oklahoma team ended their playoff run in the 2022-23 season in the play-in tournaments.
This was already unexpected as many pegged the Thunder to be a rebuilding team. But behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s unbelievable year, the franchise defied all expectations. Unfortunately, they still lacked on some fronts during the playoffs and fans believe Holmgren is the missing piece.
The star averaged 20.5 points in the recently concluded Summer League, playing at an average of 30 minutes per game. Importantly, the star’s average of 3.5 blocks per game rightly showcases his impressive frame.
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Do you think Holmgren can reach KG’s level of defensive dominance? Let us know in the comments.