After a long wait, Chet Holmgren made his return to the NBA. After breaking his foot last Summer, Chet showed flashes of his potential in Game 1. With the OKC Thunder coming off an appearance in the NBA Play-in, Holmgren is a piece to the younger core in Oklahoma City. So, what grade does Holmgren get for his Game 1 performance?
Grading the Return of Chet Holmgren
The Good
Defense
Chet showed his shot-blocking ability in Game 1. The big man produced four blocks against the Utah Jazz. His defense was a big reason Chet got drafted as high as he did in the 2022 Draft. Therefore, his desire to block shots and impact the game defensively was a positive for the Thunder. He makes a big difference with his length because he changes and stops shots from being successful. Chet was excellent on the defensive end in Game 1, and it will be essential he works hard on defense every game he plays.
In this game against the Jazz, Holmgren’s defense was one of the instrumental factors in the Thunder’s win. Chet’s ability to block shots will get him meaningful minutes this season. While people think only offense gets you on the court, Chet’s rim protection will get him minutes because the Thunder need his defense.
In-game Adjustments
It was not surprising Chet would be rusty in an NBA Game. It was his first game in almost a year, so he needed time to get used to the pace and the physicality of the game. Ironically, he did not take long to adjust to the game. Chet scored 10 points in the second quarter. He adjusted to his slow start and responded well. It is hard to shake off a tough offensive start, but Holmgren did by staying aggressive and making good decisions.
An NBA game has ebbs and flows to the contest, and Holmgren handled that negatives well. As a young player, Chet must remain focused on staying in the present.
The Bad
His Inefficiency
Chet did shoot as well as he would have liked, but this was mostly an issue at the beginning portion of the game. Holmgren responded well from the Second Quarter onwards. However, he needs to grow in efficiency for an entire game, not just for a few moments. It will allow him to earn trust offensively if he can produce high levels of efficiency.
His Conditioning
Chet responded that he felt good, but his conditioning needs to improve. It’s plausible for him to be tired because he hasn’t played basketball in a long time. Therefore, the games Chet plays will help boost his stamina and prepare for training camp. However, there were moments when he did not forcefully ask for the ball or sprint the court because his conditioning was not at peak level. It is a criticism given with a curve because he is coming off a major injury.
Chet Holmgren’s Grade: A-/A (w/injury curve)
Chet Holmgren had one of the more impressive performances for someone coming off an injury, but his conditioning and inefficiency did not allow him to get into that A tier. Nevertheless, Chet was very close. The A-/A Grade came down to his elite defensive impact and willingness to attack despite having his foot injury. Holmgren’s confidence showed he’s ready for a resurgence. As long as he can get himself more efficient and in better shape each game, Chet will look like the player worthy of his draft status. It is good to have Chet back, and it will be exciting to see him play more games.
