Chet Holmgren Emerges as Strong Contender for NBA Defensive Player of the Year

Chet Holmgren, the young center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has quickly become a dominant force in the NBA, particularly on the defensive end. Just a few games into the 2024-25 season, Holmgren is already making a strong case for the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, a title many had pegged for Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs.

Holmgren is currently leading the league in blocks with an impressive 4.0 blocks per game, a statistic that, if maintained, would be the highest since Dikembe Mutombo‘s 4.5 blocks per game in 1996. His defensive prowess is not limited to blocking shots; he also leads the league in field goals defended within six feet and has a significant edge in other defensive metrics compared to Wembanyama.

The Thunder’s overall defensive performance is another factor working in Holmgren’s favor. Oklahoma City’s defense is ranked No. 1 in the league, largely due to a strong assortment of perimeter defenders including Alex Caruso, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, Aaron Wiggins, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This support system makes Holmgren’s job easier and enhances his chances of winning the DPOY award.

In contrast, Wembanyama, despite his exceptional defensive skills and 8-foot wingspan, faces a tougher path to the award. The Spurs’ defense, which Wembanyama has to carry single-handedly, is currently ranked 19th in the league. Historically, the DPOY award tends to favor players on top defensive teams, making it challenging for Wembanyama to win unless the Spurs significantly improve their defensive standing.

Holmgren’s performance has also been highlighted in recent games, including a viral block on Wembanyama during a matchup between the Thunder and the Spurs. This play, along with his consistent defensive excellence, has put the league on notice and solidified his position as a top contender for the DPOY award.