Victor Wembanyama’s rookie season was nothing short of jaw-dropping. At 7’4″, the French sensation showed the NBA that he’s not just a unicorn; he’s something completely new. While most of the hype was around his offensive skills, it was his defense that really caught everyone’s attention, exceeding expectations. Now, heading into his second season, the big question is: Could Wembanyama win Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) so soon?

Wembanyama’s massive impact

In his first year, Wembanyama was a defensive game-changer across the board. His wingspan is absurd, and his timing? Even better. Blocking shots is one thing, but Wemby has the ability to alter everything around the rim, as he makes opponents second-guess every decision. It’s not just the blocks; he can switch onto quicker guards and hold his own, something that the majority of big men struggle with. By the end of the season, it felt like teams tried to avoid him altogether.

Wembanyama’s 2023-2024 stats (per game): 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 3.6 blocks

Winning DPOY, though, is tough. It’s an award that usually goes to established names, such as players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Rudy Gobert, or Giannis Antetokounmpo, guys who have been dominating defense for years. For Wembanyama, the biggest challenge will be consistency. It’s one thing to make a big impact as a rookie, but can he maintain that intensity and energy through an entire 82-game season in his second year? That’s where the real test comes.

Will the Spurs climb up top?

There’s also the matter of team success. To win DPOY, it helps if your team is one of the best defensively, and that’s going to depend on how much Wemby can elevate the Spurs as a whole. If San Antonio can improve their defense and Wembanyama continues to be as impactful in the paint, he’ll have a solid case for the award.

At the end of the day, Wembanyama has all the tools to win Defensive Player of the Year. It feels like it’s not a question of “if” but “when.” If he can keep up the same level of dominance in his second year, don’t be surprised if he’s right there in the DPOY conversation, and even in first place.

text source: nba.com