5 Bold Stat predictions for Victor Wembanyama during his rookie season
Having a rookie crack the top-3 in any NBA stat seems like a bold prediction. Perhaps it is, but it isn't out of the realm of possibility for a player as talented as Wembanyama. Given that he is 7'4, has a huge 8'0 wingspan, and is mobile, Wembanyama has the potential to be a game-changer on the defensive end, even during his rookie season. Last season, Anthony Davis led the NBA in blocks with 3.1 per game, while Joel Embiid and Anthony Edwards finished second and third with 2 per game each.
In theory, Wembanyama would only need to average around 2 blocks next season to accomplish this goal. It is worth noting that Wemby blocked three shots per game last season in similar minutes to what he will likely play next season for the Spurs. And while he will spend time defending out on the perimeter, he has been known to block more than a few jumpers.
His length, size, and agility should also allow him to sag off some opposing power forwards and hang out near the paint, where he can alter and deter shots. As a result, he could very well be among the best shot blockers in the NBA next season.
