Given the Thunder’s faltering performance, Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs stand a good chance of claiming the top playoff spot. Normally, having the Charlotte Hornets on the schedule wouldn’t cause unrest. But rookie Kon Knuepel has compelled them to reimagine their future expectations. The Hornets are currently on a league-best five-game winning streak.

It’s a clash of two young cores that are taking a defining leap this season. In short, the key to victory lies in the various matchups on the floor. Will the Spurs be with their ultimate weapon, Victor Wembanyama? Let’s find out.

Is Victor Wembanyama playing tonight against the Hornets?

Wemby is having the best season of his career, while barely playing his full quota of minutes. The Spurs cornerstone has suffered from some lower-body ailments, limiting him to under 30 minutes per game. Most recently, the former number one overall pick sat out two games to start the new year due to a bone bruise in his left knee. Since then, he’s been out of trouble. The 22-year-old phenom is fully healthy and fit to play against the Hornets tonight.

Wembanyama enters the game on the back of a decisive performance against the Houston Rockets. He recorded 28 points, 16 rebounds, and five blocks against their division rivals. The 7’4” center has also played over 30 minutes in three of the Spurs’ last five games. It suggests the coaching staff is starting to feel comfortable with playing Victor Wembanyma for his regular minutes.

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That could very well be necessary against a blazing Charlotte Hornets side. They have shown strong resolve during their win streak, trusting their dynamic core to produce regularly.

Spurs injury report

Jeremy Sochan – Out (Quad)

Hornets injury report

Josh Green – Probable (Achilles tendinopathy)

KJ Simpson – Out (Hip)

Mason Plumlee – Out (Groin)

Predicted starting lineup for Spurs vs Hornets

With Wembanyama cleared and gradually edging back toward his normal workload, the Spurs won’t be short on firepower. Still, this matchup is less about star power and more about composure. Charlotte’s confidence is real, their young core is playing loose, and they’ve earned the right to test contenders. If San Antonio can control the glass, survive the Hornets’ pace, and let Wembanyama dictate the game defensively, the path to a statement win is there. If not, this could be another reminder that the top of the standings is far more fragile than it looks.