Wembanyama to Miss Spurs Finale; Key Updates on Leonard, Jokic, Curry, James and Highsmith
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SAN ANTONIO — Rookie center Victor Wembanyama will sit out the San Antonio Spurs’ regular-season finale against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, two days after reaching the NBA’s 65-game threshold for postseason award eligibility. Head coach Mitch Johnson said the 20-year-old is experiencing ribcage soreness stemming from Wednesday’s collision with Philadelphia’s Paul George. “He’s doing well but just a little sore and felt it was the appropriate decision,” Johnson told reporters.
Johnson added that Wembanyama “is the strongest, the best in shape he’s been since I’ve been around,” but noted the physical toll of recent games.
Nuggets
Nikola Jokić will play in San Antonio, according to The Athletic’s Jared Weiss, ensuring the two-time MVP meets the 65-game requirement himself.
Clippers
Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out of Los Angeles’ finale against Golden State. Head coach Ty Lue said Leonard has dealt with wrist and ankle issues for the past two weeks. The forward recently appeared in his 65th game, keeping him eligible for end-of-season honors.
Warriors
Stephen Curry will start versus the Clippers and is expected to log about 30 minutes, head coach Steve Kerr said. The guard has played 25–27 minutes in each of his three outings since returning from a knee injury.
Lakers
LeBron James is available for Sunday’s matchup with Utah. Lakers coach JJ Redick told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin that no player is slated to exceed the low-30s in minutes, with guard Marcus Smart remaining on a restriction.
Suns
Forward Haywood Highsmith will return against Phoenix after missing games since March 17 for right knee management. “When he’s been on the court for us he’s been super helpful,” interim head coach Jordan Ott said.
Source: Hoops Rumors
