The hype surrounding Chet Holmgren’s return continues to build.
In the rookie introductory press conference, Thunder general manager Sam Presti said they’re hopeful Holmgren plays in summer league, which takes place from July 3-17 for OKC.
This could mark the return of Holmgren after he missed the entire 2022-23 season with a Lisfranc injury. After a dominating summer league last year, the excitement surrounding the 7-footer was drenched in cold water following his season-ending foot injury.
The injury didn’t hurt Holmgren’s reputation around the league though. It’s evident he’s still widely respected despite never suiting up for an NBA game.
On his podcast, Chicago Bulls guard Patrick Beverley praised Holmgren, saying he’s earned the respect of players around the league despite not playing in an NBA game yet.
“I’ve been speaking to some guys around the league and I’ve been asking about him and their response has been this, ‘Hey, Pat, he’s going to be nice,'” Beverley said. “Not because of his size. Not because of his talent. Because of his attitude. … He don’t duck (crap). He ain’t scared (of crap). He tough. That’s what’s going to keep you in the NBA… He going to be challenged every game, but they say he likes to go right back at (opposing players) and I respect that.”
This is some pretty high praise from an unlikely source. As most Thunder fans know, Beverley doesn’t have the best history with the franchise. Considering he’s been in the league for 11 seasons, it’s definitely a sign of respect to hear him talk so highly of Holmgren.
The Thunder hope the praise is warranted. Holmgren is expected to play a big part in their young core. OKC selected him with the No. 2 pick in the 2022 NBA draft.
