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The Oklahoma City Thunder headed into the draft with the expectation that Gonzaga's Chet Holmgren would be their choice at No. 2. This was due to the fact that the Orlando Magic were expected to select Auburn freshman Jabari Smith Jr with the first pick.
But the Orlando Magic threw a bit of a "curveball" in the mix, selecting Duke freshman Paolo Banchero with the No. 1 pick.
The Thunder had been scouting Holmgren over the majority of the pre-draft process. However, many wondered if the Magic's selection of Banchero would change the mindset of Thunder decision-maker Sam Presti.
On "Undisputed," analyst Skip Bayless said he wondered if Presti let Jabari Smith "slip through his fingers." Smith Jr. was selected third by the Rockets. Bayless said:
“Sam [Presti], Jabari just fell right into your lap.”
How will Chet Holmgren fit in with the Oklahoma City Thunder?
Coming into the draft, many considered Gonzaga freshman Chet Holmgren to be the top prospect in the class. That was until Auburn forward Jabari Smith Jr. generated buzz throughout the pre-draft process and climbed up the draft projections.
After the Orlando Magic decided to go with Paolo Banchero with the first pick, many wondered if the order would be shaken up. Nevertheless, Sam Presti still selected Holmgren, who has as much upside as any player in the draft.
Holmgren will face plenty of questions moving forward, especially when it comes to his frame. The seven-foot, 195-pound freshman is one of the most impressive defensive prospects in recent draft history, but his thin-frame has been a talking point.
The Thunder have always done a great job of spotting talent and being patient with the development of these players. For Holmgren, landing with the Oklahoma City Thunder looks to be a blessing.
During his only year at Gonzaga, Holmgren averaged 14.1 points, 9.9 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game while shooting 60.7% from the field and 39.0% from 3-point range.
