Expert projections raise fascinating question for Wembanyama

A recent ESPN survey has sparked various interesting debates about the future of the NBA, one being about Victor Wembanyama. According to the poll, NBA insiders believe Wemby will be the best player in the league in five years. But a prominent account on NBA social media circles took it a step further, claiming that Wemby could be in the conversation for the league’s best player by the end of this upcoming season. That’s only his second year in the NBA, and yet, it’s not entirely far-fetched.

Wembanyama can realistically crack the top-5 next season

Wembanyama has already shown that he can impact every aspect of the game. His rookie season was nothing short of historic, living up to the massive hype that surrounded him. With his ability to influence every stat category, his ceiling seems limitless. As he gets stronger, refines his skills, and continues to add new moves to his already deep bag, Wemby’s potential is sky-high.

If he can crack the top 5 by next season, the Spurs should be in the playoff mix. The combination of Wemby’s growth and the continued development of Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan could propel this team forward. Veterans like Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes will play crucial roles in helping the team close out games and handle pressure in the tightest moments, but the real key will be the core's evolution.

Becoming a top-5 player in any sport by your second year is almost unheard of, but Wembanyama isn’t just any player. He’s an exception, and exceptions are made for exceptional people, but more importantly, you have to call it like you see it. Do away with the shackles of holding on to past norms, and get with the program. It's liberating.