The San Antonio Spurs will face the Los Angeles Lakers in an NBA Cup quarterfinal game on December 13, 2023, but they will do so without their star center, Victor Wembanyama. The promising rookie has been sidelined since suffering a left calf strain during a game against the Golden State Warriors on November 14. Wembanyama has missed 11 consecutive games and is not yet ready to return to action.
Wembanyama officially ruled out of Lakers game
The Spurs confirmed that Wembanyama will not participate in the upcoming matchup against the Lakers as he continues his recovery. On a positive note, he has recently rejoined practices as a full participant, indicating that his return could be imminent. Following the contest against Los Angeles, the Spurs will enjoy a week off from competitive play, which may provide additional time for Wembanyama to recuperate. There is a possibility he could be back on the court for the Spurs’ next game against the Washington Wizards on December 17.
Despite Wembanyama’s absence, the Spurs have performed commendably, achieving an 8-3 record during the games he missed. Currently, they sit fifth in the Western Conference standings with a record of 16 wins and 7 losses. Before his injury, Wembanyama was delivering impressive performances, averaging 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 3.6 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game over 12 appearances. He was also a leading candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award, but his chances may be affected by the NBA’s 65-game minimum requirement for eligibility.
The upcoming game will mark the second meeting of the season between the Spurs and the Lakers. In their first encounter in early November, the Lakers edged out the Spurs with a narrow 118-116 victory. Wembanyama was active in that game, contributing 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists in 33 minutes of play.
As the Spurs prepare for this crucial matchup, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor the status of Wembanyama, hoping for his swift return to bolster the team’s championship aspirations.
