Wemby out for the season | Nuggets take 2 seed in the West
Feb 21, 2025
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Join NBA reporter Sam Amick as he sheds light on Victor Wembanyama's shocking diagnosis of a blood clot, sidelining the promising Spurs star for the season. The conversation dives into the emotional impact on fans and the team's future. Amick also discusses the Denver Nuggets' ascendancy, highlighting stellar performances by players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. With health concerns at the forefront, the implications for Wemby’s recovery and the Spurs’ search for a coach add layers to an unfolding NBA narrative.
Victor Wembanyama's diagnosis of a blood clot underscores the critical need for timely health assessments and management in young athletes.
The Spurs' long-term aspirations remain intact despite Wemby's absence, focusing on their promising young core and potential coaching changes.
Deep dives
Victor Wembanyama's Injury and Health Concerns
Victor Wembanyama has been diagnosed with a blood clot in his right shoulder, resulting in him missing the remainder of the season. This situation is alarming, as deep vein thrombosis can potentially lead to severe complications if not detected promptly. Thankfully, the issue was identified after he reported low energy levels leading up to the All-Star break, prompting further medical tests. The Spurs are optimistic about his recovery, expecting him to return fully healthy for the next season.
Impact of Wembanyama's Absence on the Spurs
The short-term effects of Wembanyama's absence could be significant for the Spurs, as they were struggling even before his diagnosis. Fans are understandably disappointed as they anticipated watching him compete for accolades such as the Defensive Player of the Year. However, the Spurs still have a bright future with their young core, including De'Aaron Fox and key draft picks, keeping their long-term goals intact. This situation also raises questions about the team's coaching direction, with speculation surrounding Greg Popovich's future.
Future Implications for Players and the NBA
Wembanyama's health scare highlights the importance of player health and wellness, especially for young athletes under intense scrutiny. The NBA may need to consider how travel schedules impact player health, particularly for players of Wembanyama's height and physical demands. Other players in the league are likely observing this situation closely, recognizing the challenges that come with peak athletic performance. Wembanyama's unique appeal, including his international charisma, positions him as a potential face of the league, making his recovery crucial for both the Spurs and the NBA’s global brand.
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama will miss the remainder of the season after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his shoulder. Dave DuFour and Zena react to the news about Wemby, the Knicks overtime win, and the Denver Nuggets rise up the west standings. Then, the Athletic’s Sam Amick joins the show to breakdown the timeline for Wembanyama’s diagnosis, the fallout, and whether the Spurs will be searching for a new coach.
Host: Dave DuFour
With: Zena Keita & Sam Amick
Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht
Audio Producer: Grayson Moody
Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7
Read Sam’s story on Victor Wembanyama: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6149559/2025/02/20/victor-wembanyama-blood-clot-spurs/