Victor Wembanyama enters the season with realistic expectations
Many will be expecting Victor Wembanyama to come in immediately and change the fortunes of the San Antonio Spurs franchise. Patience will be key for the front office, fans, and players alike as everyone has to understand that things are not going to change overnight.
Some are concerned about Wembanyama’s thin frame and worry about his durability but he has the ideal body type to add muscle, and once he gets in the weight room, gets stronger, and becomes more explosive, he will be tough to guard. Even without his offense, Wembanyama will be a game-changer defensively.
Not only will he deter players from attacking the paint but he will also make things difficult for shooters on the perimeter with his length and wing span. Once he finds his rhythm and gets acclimated to the offense and his teammates, things should begin to slow down for him as he gets used to Popovich’s system.
Realistically, Wembanyama should average right around 18 points per game, 10 rebounds, and about three assists. Defensively, he could reach at least 2.5 blocks per game due to the Spurs’ overall defensive potential as a unit. Wembanyama has the potential to finish in the top 5 in blocked shots considering his energy and how active he is around the rim.
Wembanyama was very fortunate to be drafted by a first-class organization as they now have the opportunity to accomplish something special and it all begins with him. The Spurs already have players to surround him with and everything aligns perfectly with the timeline as many of the core players are in their early 20’s so they can all grow together.
Wembanyama has brought a sense of nostalgia back to San Antonio hoping that this will become a new beginning and the foundation of another dynasty in the making.