In a world where the NBA is consistently handing out fines for teams resting players during nationally televised games, it’s refreshing to get some news like this. Victor Wembanyama, who has missed San Antonio’s past 12 games due to a calf strain, is expected to return to action for Saturday’s NBA Cup matchup with the Thunder.
Wembanyama is officially listed as probable.
Wembanyama was a force of nature in his 12 starts to begin 2025-26, averaging 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds and 3.6 blocks per game. The former first-overall pick was also shooting 50.2% from the field despite taking 4.8 three-point attempts per contest.
More importantly, The Spurs’ defensive rating with Wembanyama on the floor this season is 108.6. In comparison, San Antonio allows 11.0 more opponent points per 100 possessions with Wemby on the sideline — which makes sense given he’s the NBA’s best rim protector. The Spurs will need that presence to slow down an Oklahoma City team that is 24-1 with the league’s fifth-highest offensive rating (120.5).
Even with the All-Star likely returning on Saturday, San Antonio finds itself as a 9.5-point underdog on the DraftKings Sportsbook.