The San Antonio Spurs faced a significant disadvantage against the Dallas Mavericks, given their struggling record and recent end to an 18-game losing streak.
To secure a victory against a playoff-caliber team like the Mavericks, everything needed to align perfectly. However, their chances took a hit when Victor Wembanyama, not initially listed on the injury report, was a last-minute scratch due to an ankle injury suffered in warmups.
The top overall pick and Rookie of the Year candidate accidentally stepped on a ballboy’s foot after making a layup before the game, prompting the Spurs to err on the side of caution and keep him out.
As anticipated, Dallas dominated the game with a 144-119 victory, pushing the Spurs to a 4-24 record for the year. Coach Gregg Popovich mentioned postgame that Wembanyama would have played in a postseason game, emphasizing the cautious approach taken. When questioned about injuries during warmups, Popovich expressed disbelief, stating, “Never. And if you’d seen it on tape, you wouldn’t believe it.”
Despite Wembanyama’s overall durability this season, unexpected injuries can occur. Last season, Kevin Durant suffered an ankle injury during warmups with the Phoenix Suns, unrelated to external factors.
Although Wembanyama’s injury seemed less severe, the Spurs opted not to risk their prized rookie. Given their distant position in the playoff race, they have no incentive to rush his return without a thorough evaluation of the ankle. Losing developmental time for Wembanyama due to this stroke of bad luck adds to the frustrations of a challenging season for the Spurs, where little has gone right aside from his contributions.
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