The Rookie of the Year race has taken a new turn in the NBA. In the latest NBA Rookie Ladder, San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has surpassed Oklahoma City Thunder star Chet Holmgren.
Despite Oklahoma City Thunder’s overall successful performance, Chet Holmgren’s statistics have slightly declined. However, his contribution to the team remains important. Currently, Holmgren is averaging 17 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, maintaining a high efficiency in shooting.
https://t.co/wWGNmWnCY9’s updated rookie ladder:
1. Victor Wembanyama
2. Chet Holmgren
3. Brandon Miller
4. Jaime Jaquez Jr.
5. Keyonte George
6. Ausar Thompson
7. Dereck Lively II
8. Bilal Coulibaly
9. Brandin Podziemski
10. Toumani Camara— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 13, 2023
Whereas, Victor Wembanyama has been putting up slightly better numbers. In 21 games, Wembanyama is averaging 18.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, 2.8 blocks, and 1.2 steals, with a 43.1% field goal percentage and 25.0% in three-pointers. His recent performances, including five back-to-back double-doubles and outstanding games against the Bulls and Rockets, have helped him to climb the top spot on the ladder.
This change in the rankings has sparked various reactions from NBA fans. Some fans have expressed their disagreement with the new rankings. Comments like “that list is a joke, how is Chet not 1,” “Chet should without a doubt be 1st,” and “Chet is literally 1. Wemby doesn’t impact winning” highlight that they believe Holmgren should be at the top, stating his big role in the Thunder’s success.
Despite these opinions, Wembanyama’s rise to the top spot is because of his individual numbers and potential, even though his team, the Spurs, is stuck at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. The fluctuating opinions and performances suggest that this season’s Rookie of the Year race will be closely contested.
Anthony Davis says Victor Wembanyama is the leading candidate for Rookie of the Year
Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis has recently praised Victor Wembanyama, naming him the leading candidate for the NBA Rookie of the Year. Davis’ comments came after a close game against the Spurs, where Wembanyama’s performance impressed everyone.
As LeBron James was absent, the game turned into a battle between Davis and the rookie Wembanyama. Davis, who finished with 37 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 steals, praised Wembanyama’s talent and impact. He highlighted the rookie’s ability to keep the Spurs competitive in games, despite their overall struggles this season.
“The team is struggling, but, um, he’s playing extremely well, and he’s able to, um, keep them in games. They’re playing really good basketball… He[Wemby] showed why he’s the number one pick and leading candidate for Rookie of the Year tonight.” Davis stated.
AD on what it was like playing against Wembanyama: “He showed why he’s the No. 1 pick and a candidate for Rookie of the Year tonight.” pic.twitter.com/pcM2rIGWt7
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) December 14, 2023
Wembanyama recorded 30 points, 13 rebounds, 6 blocks, and 3 steals for the night. The game, especially the second half, highlighted Wembanyama’s potential, with a noticeable surge in the fourth quarter that caught everyone’s attention.