Victor Wembanyama is the most highly-rated player in the 2023 Draft. Having been selected first overall by the San Antonio Spurs, many have high expectations for the French center. In fact, many believe he has an extremely high ceiling, and could even become the GOAT when all is said and done. However, while many are convinced of his potential, Draymond Green and Paul George have their doubts. Doubts that were expressed on PG13’s podcast, Podcast P.
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The hype surrounding Wemby is real. The 19-year-old, who has been dubbed “The Alien” by many in the league is attracting a lot of interest. In fact, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst claimed that Damian Lillard was interested in teaming up with him in San Antonio. Considering the implications, especially since Dame requested a trade away from the Portland Trailblazers who just got Scoot Henderson, it says a lot about Wembanyama.
Draymond Green and Paul George believe Victor Wembanyama will struggle in transitioning to the NBA game
No player has had so much expectation surrounding them as Victor Wembanyama does. The 7’4″ center has got everyone’s attention and is believed to have potential that if met could propel him to GOAT-level status. And, for the most part, analysts are right.
Wemby is a prospect the NBA hasn’t seen in ages. A literal “unicorn”, he is what many would describe as the perfect basketball player. A big man who can dominate in the post, has the handles of a guard, and can shoot three-pointers at a consistent rate.
However, while everyone is convinced he can challenge LeBron James and Michael Jordan for the throne, Draymond Green and Paul George have expressed concerns. The veteran stars believe Wembanyama will struggle to transition to the NBA. And, while they do believe he won’t be a bust, they are certain he won’t be an All-Star in his first year. Contrary to what several reputed analysts have said.
Paul George: “I see him doing well. I’m not saying he’s going to… no way at all a bust. He’s gonna be a star, but I think in the beginning there’s gotta be some kind of struggle, just his transitioning to this game. I don’t think his trajectory is gonna be this (points upward) from day one.”
Draymond Green: “I think people are setting him up for failure. Like, ‘Oh! He’s gonna be an All-Star next year! Man… it’s hard in this NBA. It’s hard to become an All-Star in this league. Now if he do… like God be with him… more power to him. But to say he’s gonna be an All-Star next year like he don’t have to figure this game out… I don’t really buy that!”
Dray and PG do have a point. It is still early days in Wemby’s career and there is still much we don’t know about him. However, we will get a glimpse soon. After all, he is preparing to suit up for Summer League.
Wemby plans on making his Summer League debut against Brandon Miller and the Charlotte Hornets
The off-season has kicked off and fans are excitedly watching the newest prospects in action. Players like Jaime Jaquez Jr., Chet Holmgren, and Julian Champagnie. But, to everyone’s disappointment, Victor Wembanyama is yet to take the court. Fortunately, we will not have to wait too long to see him play, as he plans on making his Summer League debut against the Charlotte Hornets and Brandon Miller.
It will be great to see him in action. Hopefully, he lives up to expectations. And, just maybe, it will be enough to convince Dray and PG to change their initial assessment.
