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Victor Wembanyama's role debated after Spurs' Game 1 loss to Knicks

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 4:54 PM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Victor Wembanyama's role debated after Spurs' Game 1 loss to Knicks

Summary

The San Antonio Spurs lost Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals to the New York Knicks, 105-95, sparking debate over Victor Wembanyama's offensive role. Former NBA guard Antonio Daniels argues Wembanyama should be utilized more like Kevin Durant rather than Shaquille O’Neal, as the Knicks limited his scoring opportunities. Wembanyama finished with 26 points but struggled, shooting 6-of-21 and committing six turnovers. With Game 2 approaching, analysts stress the need for the Spurs to adjust their approach to unlock Wembanyama's potential against a Knicks team on a 12-game playoff win streak.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Spurs lost Game 1 of the NBA Finals, 105-95.
•Wembanyama scored 26 points but struggled shooting.
•Antonio Daniels compares Wembanyama to Durant, not O'Neal.
•Debate continues over how to best utilize Wembanyama's skills.
•Game 2 is critical for Spurs against Knicks' 12-game playoff win streak.

Latest Updates

4:54 PMYahoo Sports — Victor Wembanyama Compared to Kevin Durant over Shaquille O’Neal in Bold Take by Former NBA Guard Amid 2026 Finals Debate

What they're saying

"
Victor Wembanyama has been at the center of every conversation since the 2026 NBA Finals began. After the Spurs lost Game 1 to the Knicks 105-95, debate over how to best use their 7-foot-4 star has intensified. Former NBA guard and current analyst Antonio Daniels has a clear answer that challenges a common view of [...]
— Yahoo Sports

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