Spurs Rule Out Victor Wembanyama (Ankle) vs. Nuggets The San Antonio Spurs have ruled out star center Victor Wembanyama for Thursday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets due to right ankle soreness. The decision was announced approximately 45 minutes before the matchup, which pits the Spurs against the Nuggets in a key Western Conference contest. Wembanyama, who had been listed as questionable on the NBA injury report, tested his ankle prior to the game but was ultimately kept out of the lineup. Coach Mitch Johnson emphasized the team’s cautious approach, stating, “We’ll be mindful of all of it. Fortunately, I think regardless, this is something we view as very short term. It’s very much how he’s feeling versus risk of bigger picture.” The Spurs’ decision reflects a balance between managing Wembanyama’s health and the team’s competitive needs in the matchup against the Nuggets, who are led by Nikola Jokic. Wembanyama’s absence will have implications for his end-of-season award eligibility. To qualify for postseason honors, he must play in 13 of San Antonio’s final 16 games. The NBA requires players to accumulate at least 20 minutes of playing time across 65 games during the 82-game regular season. So far this season, Wembanyama has participated in 51 games. His participation in the NBA Cup Final, which does not count toward regular-season statistics or standings, has added one more game to his required 65-game minimum. The Spurs’ lineup adjustments will be critical as they aim to secure a strong finish in the Western Conference. Wembanyama’s absence could test the depth of the team’s roster, particularly in the paint, where his presence has been a key factor in their defensive and offensive strategies.#denver_nuggets #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #nikola_jokic #nba_cup_final
