On Friday night, the San Antonio Spurs picked up their seventh win of the season, taking down the Charlotte Hornets in dominant fashion. They earned a 135-99 victory over LaMelo Ball, who made his return from injury after being out since November 28. Victor Wembanyama and company spoiled his return.
Wembanyama, who is still on a minutes restriction as he deals with an ankle injury, was awesome in his minutes, and Jeremy Sochan and Doug McDermott helped out along the way. Unfortunately, in tandem with his minutes restriction, Wembanyama is also dealing with some other limitations due to his ongoing injury (one he’s frustrated with).
According to Mike Finger of the San Antonio Express-News, Wembanyama will miss the Spurs’ Saturday night game against the Chicago Bulls, as he isn’t playing in back-to-backs right now.
“No Wembanyama tomorrow, as expected. Also no back-to-back next weekend,” Finger tweeted. “Popovich said he’ll be reevaluated shortly after that.”
No Wembanyama tomorrow, as expected. Also no back-to-back next weekend. Popovich said he’ll be reevaluated shortly after that.
— Mike Finger (@mikefinger) January 13, 2024
Wembanyama finished the game against Charlotte with 26 points, 11 rebounds, one assist, and two blocks while shooting 9-of-14 from the field and 2-of-3 from behind the three-point line. He only played 19:41.
The Spurs are better with Wembanyama on the court, but it’s more important that they prioritize his health, as it will help the team in the long run. Rather than run the risk of him getting injured, shutting him down in spurts for now will be beneficial to the team down the line. That said, he undoubtedly wants to be out on the court with his teammates helping them win.
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