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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Basketball fans can rejoice, as NBA basketball is back after a break of almost three months. The new season brings new narratives, with Victor Wembanyama’s impact on the league being a major topic of discussion. Coming into the league, Wembanyama was the most hyped draft prospect since LeBron James in 2003. And he lived up to the expectations with outstanding performances during the NBA preseason.

With the new NBA season almost upon us, Victor would hope to translate his stellar preseason performances into meaningful victories for the Spurs in the NBA. But, given Victor’s height and physical build, injuries could significantly impact his debut season in the NBA.

Wembanyama Outlines Expectations for his Rookie Year

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The addition of rookie Victor Wembanyama has rejuvenated the Spurs. After years of mediocrity, the Spurs now have an opportunity to once again contend for the highest accolades in the NBA. Wembanyama is a generational talent, as the NBA has never seen a player of his size with the skill set that Victor possesses. Victor’s outstanding preseason performances have raised the already high expectations set for him. But injuries among NBA players above seven feet have been a recurring concern over the years. Last summer, fellow seven-footer Chet Holmgren suffered a Lisfranc injury while contesting a drive from LeBron during a Seattle Pro-Am game.

However, Wembanyama is aware of the injury risk that comes with his body type and he has been preparing for the NBA’s physicality. ESPN reporter Andrew Lopez asked Wemby about his ability to play throughout the season. He replied, “Every game. If there’s no excessive risk for my health – of course, I can’t predict the future – but I want to play every single game”. The Spurs will be very careful with Victor’s playing minutes because knee and foot issues have plagued many taller players, often leading to shortened careers.

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Crown Jewel of Spurs’ Young Core

The San Antonio Spurs are building a promising young core as they look to return to championship contention. The group, led by Wembanyama, also features talented players like Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Jeremy Sochan. These youngsters could develop into future superstars of the NBA, under the tutelage of legendary coach Gregg Popovich.

Read More: Shortly After Steve Kerr’s Jibe at Gregg Popovich, Rookie Victor Wembayama’s Urges to Bring Back Spurs’ Glory Days

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But Victor remains the crown jewel for Spurs, as the expectations of millions of Spurs’ supporters rest on his shoulder. Victor’s strength and conditioning will be their utmost priority because he might never achieve his frightening potential if he constantly gets injured, like other seven-footers.

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