The San Antonio Spurs have been known — and borderline infamous — in the league for always going the extra mile to protect their stars.
Gregg Popovich and the organization even got into trouble for constantly sitting out Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, and Tim Duncan right before nationally televised games for rest and load management purposes.
Then, Kawhi Leonard pretty much made it a trend among the biggest stars in the game, and that snowball effect may never be stopped now.
That’s why it was far from surprising to see that they decided to shut down No. 1 pick Victor Wembanyama after just a couple of appearances at the NBA Summer League, and Colin Cowherd believes they did just the right thing.
"I totally agree with what the Spurs are doing… They're going to control this thing."
— @ColinCowherd on San Antonio's decision to shut down Wemby for remainder of summer league pic.twitter.com/XCMbh5CvDF
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) July 11, 2023
Per Cowherd, the Spurs will now be able to be in full control of the narrative, his preparation, his body, and every single thing it’ll take him to succeed in the National Basketball Association.
He’s been playing non-stop for the past year, and he needs some time to heal, restore his body, and bulk up thinking of the future.
They gave him an opportunity to bounce back and silence the critics, turning the narrative around after his underwhelming debut, so there’s no reason for them to risk an injury in meaningless games with guys that won’t even be with him on the floor next season.
The expectations and stakes are as high as they’ve ever been in the organization, and they can never be too cautious with their prized and unique rookie.
NEXT: Kenny Smith Makes A Bold Prediction About Victor Wembanyama