Spurs' Victor Wembanyama could make NBA history if he plays in enough games

Victor Wembanyama has put the league on notice in just his third season with the San Antonio Spurs. That was underscored Tuesday, when Wembanyama posted 39 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks in a 125–116 win over the Boston Celtics.

The 22-year-old superstar has been dynamic on both ends of the floor — especially on defense. If his stellar play continues, the 7-foot-4 French phenom could become the youngest player in NBA history to win the Defensive Player of the Year Award.

Dwight Howard is the youngest, capturing it at 23 years, 128 days old during the 2008–09 season with the Orlando Magic. Wemby won't turn 23 until Jan. 4, 2027.

If Wembanyama can make the 65-game requirement to qualify for league awards, he is likely to win DPOY. He has played in 51 of 65 games this season for San Antonio (48-17).

Victor Wembanyama excels on defense

Wembanyama, the 2024 Rookie of the Year, is averaging 24.2 points, 11.1 rebounds and a league-leading three blocks. He also leads the NBA in total blocks (153) and is fourth in defensive rebounds (469) . 

The 2023 No.1 overall pick impresses by using his frame to be a highly effective rim protector. Wembanyama's eight-foot wingspan allows him to consistently block shots and disrupt high-level pick-and-roll actions.

Who else is in the Defensive Player of the Year running?

The NBA is brimming with elite defensive players, including Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren, Minnesota's Rudy Gobert, Toronto's Scottie Barnes, Cleveland's Evan Mobley and others. 

Holmgren, 23, anchors a defense that's first in defensive rating. The 7-foot-1 center uses his length to protect the rim and is versatile enough to defend players on the perimeter.

Gobert, a four-time DPOY winner, anchors a defense that ranks ninth in the league. Gobert has solidified himself as one of the premier defensive players in league history. 

Mobley earned DPOY last season and is still in the running this season. However, he has missed significant time because of a bothersome left calf strain. 

Barnes, who also is having a highly productive season, can guard multiple positions. The 24-year-old is a big reason why the Raptors are fifth overall in defensive rating. 

But at this stage of the season, the award is Wembanyama's to lose — if he meets the games threshold.