Victor Wembanyama on NBA teams tanking to get him drafted for next season: “It’s a weird strategy”
Victor Wembanyama has become the runaway favorite to be the first pick in the 2023 NBA draft. But even the 18-year-old big man isn't fond of the idea of tanking in the NBA.
A potential generational talent, Wembanyama has emerged as the grand prize of the 2023 draft lottery. Fan bases around the league are dreaming of the possibility of adding the French-born big man to their franchise.
The idea of tanking has been an issue for years. The lottery was instituted in 1985 when Georgetown's Patrick Ewing was the prized pick. Teams will do everything in their power to increase their odds of having a favorable pick in the lottery. When it comes to adding a talent like Wembanyama, the stakes are at an all-time high. The 7-foot-4 big man has the potential to shift the trajectory of a franchise.
In a recent interview with "Le Parisien," Victor Wembanyama talked about the concept of tanking.
“Tanking? It’s a weird strategy," Wembanyama said. "I find it unreasonable, and I try not to think about it. I also heard that the NBA considered changing a few rules for me, but that doesn’t concern me.”
The teams with the worst records will have the highest odds of drafting Wembanyama, with Scoot Henderson considered an impressive consolation prize.
Currently, the Orlando Magic (13-23), Charlotte Hornets (9-26) and Detroit Pistons (9-28) are at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The LA Lakers (14-21), San Antonio Spurs (11-23) and Houston Rockets (10-24) bring up the rear in the Western Conference.
The Lakers, however, do not control their pick. Because of the 2019 trade for Anthony Davis, the New Orleans Pelicans (22-12), who lead the West, can swap first-round picks with the Lakers.
Victor Wembanyama blasts tanking teams
“It's a weird strategy."
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NBA draft prospect Victor Wembanyama having strong season overseas
The talent and upside of Victor Wembanyama has been on full display during his 2022-23 season overseas. Wembanyama has the two-way potential to be a transformational piece at the NBA level.
Wembanyama stands out with his jaw-dropping frame. He's listed at 7-foot-4 with a reported 8-foot wingspan. Victor uses his frame to showcase his potential as a shot-blocking force on the defensive side of the floor.
But what's most fascinating about his game is his offensive upside.
Victor Wembanyama doing his thing in the LNB All-Star Game... watch on the NBA App!
app.link.nba.com/lnb-allstar https://t.co/DLOrNIH55P
Although he has the size of a center, Wembanyama has the offensive skills of a fluid wing. He can stretch the defense from well beyond 3-point range with a gorgeous outside shot. Wembanyama has also shown an advanced feel for creating off the dribble.
Wembanyama has been having an outstanding season in France for the Metropolitans 92. During league play, Victor is averaging 22.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.5 steals and 3.0 blocks per game. He is shooting 48.8%, including 29.6% from three-point range.