Kendrick Perkins compares Wembanyama to two-time champ

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama. Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

Kendrick Perkins compares Victor Wembanyama to two-time NBA champion

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 10/14/23

Victor Wembanyama impressed for the San Antonio Spurs in their preseason victory over the Miami Heat. The rookie sensation captivated the NBA world with a slick array of scoring moves. Wembanyama ended the contest with 23 points on 10-of-15 shooting.

When speaking on ESPN's halftime show, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins made an interesting comparison for Wembanyama's skill set. Perkins likened the Spurs rookie's scoring ability to Kevin Durant.

"Offensively, in my opinion, he's a 7-foot-4 version of Kevin Durant," Perkins said. "He can do it all. And the way he's moving out there. The way he can anchor a defense. Cover ground. Protect the basket...When I look at Wembanyama, we already know the skill set was there. But now, we're seeing the dedication, what he put into his body. 10-12 lbs of muscle. The sky is the limit for this young man."

"Offensively in my opinion, he's a 7'4 Kevin Durant"

- @KendrickPerkins on what he saw last night from Victor Wembanyama

(via ESPN) pic.twitter.com/v5Zpp5olKG
— BASKETBALL ON (@BasketballOnX) October 14, 2023

Wembanyama is expected to take the NBA by storm. The rookie can dribble like a guard. He can shoot like a wing. And he can control the paint like a center. Opposing teams are going to have trouble shutting him down throughout the season. Being likened to Durant at such an early stage in his career is an incredible compliment — especially as there are a lot of similarities in their games.

As such, the Spurs expect Wembanyama to face a lot of physicality.

Keldon Johnson has already discussed his willingness to protect Wembanyama throughout the upcoming season. Gregg Popovich will also look to manage his latest star's minutes. He may have added muscle this summer, but Wembanyama has never faced the level of athleticism awaiting him in the NBA. There will be an adjustment period.

Wembanyama is already impressive. Teams will want to shut him down early when the games matter. It will be interesting to see how the Spurs deploy their young big man. More importantly, it will be interesting to see what type of counters Wembanyama has up his sleeve and how he will respond when teams get physical. It's going to be a fascinating season in San Antonio.

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