Wembanyama’s Ankle Keeps Him Out; Wagner Nears Return; Hornets Extend Road Surge
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DENVER — The San Antonio Spurs held rookie center Victor Wembanyama out of Thursday’s matchup with the Denver Nuggets because of soreness in his right ankle, ending his run of 30 consecutive appearances.
According to interim coach Mitch Johnson, the 20-year-old went through pre-game warmups while wearing a brace, but team medical staff recommended caution. “There was a chance he could play, but it was clear it was the right decision,” Johnson said. He added that the Spurs do not expect a long-term issue.
Without their defensive anchor, San Antonio squandered a 20-point lead and surrendered two 40-point quarters in the 128-120 loss. Johnson said Wembanyama’s status for Saturday’s home game against the Charlotte Hornets remains day-to-day: “I do think there’s a chance, but it’s a wait-and-see thing.” The missed contest was Wembanyama’s first since Jan. 30.
Magic Forward Franz Wagner Takes Step Toward Return
In Orlando, forward Franz Wagner participated in an on-court workout during Wednesday’s shootaround, his first such activity since the All-Star break. Head coach Jamahl Mosley told reporters the third-year wing did light shooting but has not yet been cleared for contact drills.
Hornets Riding Hot Hand on the Road
Charlotte continued its impressive away form with Wednesday’s victory over the Sacramento Kings, giving the Hornets 12 wins in their past 13 road games. Interim coach Charles Lee said the string of results has injected postseason urgency into each outing. “We’re almost looking at every game as a postseason game,” Lee noted. “That’s how you build your habits.”
Source: Hoops Wire
