16. San Antonio Spurs
It’s safe to say that many NBA talking heads were a bit wrong about the San Antonio Spurs, on more than a few levels. For one, Victor Wembanyama is a lot better than even the most optimistic of fans thought he’d be. Wemby is likely going to be an All-Star player this season and will have an outside chance to make an All-NBA team during his rookie season. That’s pretty insane considering how young and raw he still is as a player.
Wemby is leading the Spurs in scoring, averaging 21 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks per game on 50 percent shooting from the field. The Spurs are 3-2 through the first five games of the season and have the look of a possible playoff team in the Western Conference. For the Spurs, it will likely come down to two things this season.
For one, can they remain healthy? Specifically Wemby. If he can, there’s not much stopping the Spurs from being a true playoff threat. And second, do the Spurs have enough difference-makers in their supporting cast? That remains to be seen, despite the solid start.