Deadspin: Victor Wembanyama Increases Offensive Load as Surging Spurs Play Jazz

Wembanyama drives Spurs offense

San Antonio has recovered from two early-season losses with four consecutive wins. Wembanyama has been central to the turnaround, leading the Spurs in scoring in five of their six games.

Against Minnesota on Saturday, he scored 43 points, while Dylan Harper had 25 and De'Aaron Fox added 22. Julian Champagnie contributed 12 off the bench. Wembanyama attempted 34 shots, three fewer than the other four starters combined, marking his third straight game with more field-goal attempts.

Coach Mitch Johnson said the team’s first option is playing through Wembanyama. He said the approach gives opponents problems through screening, spacing and ball-handling.

Spurs prepare for Utah rematch

San Antonio will host the Jazz on Monday, in the middle game of a three-game homestand. The teams last met Wednesday, when the Spurs won in overtime in Salt Lake City.

Wembanyama said experience helps players recognize patterns and learn from different game situations. He added that the team is moving in the right direction, despite the ups and downs.

Jazz seek a response

Utah lost 112-90 at home to Portland on Saturday, posting its lowest offensive output of the early season. The Jazz shot 37.2% from the field, making 29 of 78 attempts, and 27.5% from three-point range, making 11 of 40.

Rookie guard Darryn Peterson led Utah with 16 points, while Lauri Markkanen scored 13 and Brice Sensabaugh had 12. The Jazz also lost the rebounding battle 48-37 and have now dropped four straight games, with five losses in their first six outings. Utah guard Keyonte George said the team wants to speed up its improvement but must learn from each game, whether it wins or loses.