Chet Holmgren names NBA’s best defender – and it’s not him or Victor Wembanyama
· Yahoo Sports
Comparisons between Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama have intensified since 2023, when the French star was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs. Their development has been closely followed since then.
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This season, expectations have grown around a potential playoff meeting between the two. Their similar profiles and the fact that both play for top-tier teams continue to fuel discussion.
One of the biggest debates centres on defence. Holmgren recently addressed that topic in an interview, but his answer shifted the focus away from the expected names.
Chet Holmgren names teammate as NBA’s best defender
Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty ImagesSpeaking with Serge Ibaka on the “How Hungry Are You?” show, Holmgren offered a surprising choice.
When asked about the matter by the former NBA champion, he named his Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Cason Wallace as the best defender in the league.
The 24-year-old said: “I think Cason is the best defender. If you’re looking for somebody who not only can defend on ball but off ball in the passing lanes.
“He can hound you 94 feet. He can get steals, but he can also play solid and just force you to miss a shot. You know, I’m a big fan of Cason.”
Wallace entered the NBA in the same draft class as Wembanyama. He was selected 10th overall by the Dallas Mavericks before being traded to Oklahoma City.
Despite Holmgren’s praise, Wallace was not among the Defensive Player of the Year contenders. That award ultimately went to Wembanyama, who was in contention alongside Holmgren and Ausar Thompson.
Oklahoma City Thunder have a defensive identity built on collective strength
Holmgren himself has received strong recognition for his defensive impact. His presence has helped define Oklahoma City’s identity on that end of the floor.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander highlighted that influence after a Game 2 win over the Phoenix Suns.
The Canadian superstar stated: “Since the day that Chet Holmgren played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, we’ve been the first seed in the West, and it’s no coincidence.”
“He anchors the best defensive team in the league,” he added.
Holmgren’s praise for Wallace, combined with that endorsement, underlines the Thunder’s depth.
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