Wembanyama put unfair pressure on every young NBA star but it's not his fault

It's been two weeks since Victor Wembanyama signed his rookie extension for $252 million, and people are still talking about the implications of the Spurs star's sacrifice. Some applaud his decision, while others are focused on what it means for the rest of the NBA's young talent when it's their time to sign on the dotted line.

Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon have the reasonable stance that players have a right to decide what's best for them and shouldn't be excoriated for choosing not to turn down extra money. They're absolutely right about that.

"Players should get the most money they can get, but if they want to make a decision to take less that's on the player, and I understand that, too." - Sam Vecenie via the Game Theory Podcast

However, reason and reality often run parallel to one another in the NBA community.

Every young star will be compared to Wembanyama during contract negotiations

This is the whole reason for the aggressive apron penalties. They flip the burden of sacrifice from the front office and owners onto the players. If you don't take less, you're hamstringing the team's ability to build out a full roster. Wemby is aware of that reality, and it's the sole reason he opted for less.

Sure, they'll pay superstars what they're worth if that's what the player insists upon, but the fear of the second apron gives them an excuse to avoid paying others. Either way, they can keep their payrolls limited. The less money passed out to players, the more they get to keep for themselves.

It's not right, since these owners are billionaires, and most of these athletes come from much more humble beginnings. They shouldn't have to sacrifice millions, but Wemby did, so others will be expected to.

Fans make the comparisons all the time. Contract details are public knowledge, so comparing guys by saying, "I can't believe this player is making more than this star," is a common occurrence. It'd be foolish to believe general managers weren't doing something similar.

Every single one of them will at least try to complete contract extensions at a discount, referencing the San Antonio Frenchman in their arguments. I can hear it now: "If a top 3 player in the NBA and one of the most amazing talents we've ever seen can take a haircut, why can't you?"

Again, none of this is Vic's fault, though. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year is his own man. Wemby has goals of his own, and he's willing to acquiesce to the current reality rather than buck against it for the sake of winning. That's his right. He shouldn't be criticized for that.

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