Is Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama playing in Game 5 vs. Timberwolves after elbow to Naz Reid?

Is Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama playing in Game 5 vs. Timberwolves after elbow to Naz Reid? appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There is a first time for everything, as they say. Victor Wembanyama was ejected for the first time on Sunday in Game 4 of the second-round clash between the San Antonio Spurs and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Wembanyama was tossed in the second quarter after elbowing Naz Reid in the neck. Wembanyama was whistled for a flagrant foul 2, triggering the automatic disqualification. He finished with four points and four rebounds in 12 minutes.

Despite his exit, the Spurs stayed afloat. They, however, ultimately fell short as the Timberwolves escaped with the win, 114-109, to tie the best-of-seven series at 2-2.

There were concerns that Wembanyama might be suspended for Game 5 on Tuesday due to his unnecessary act.

Victor Wembanyama’s status vs. Timberwolves in Game 5

Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Wembanyama will suit up in Game 5 after avoiding further sanctions from the league.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson stated that it would be “ridiculous” if the 22-year-old center were suspended, claiming that Wembanyama had no intention to hurt Reid.

The NBA likely considered Wembanyama’s good behavior since entering the league in 2023 for its decision not to penalize him additionally.

Reid also did not take issue with the incident, noting that “pain is weakness leaving the body.” He had 15 points, nine rebounds, and four assists.

The absence of Wembanyama opened things up for the Timberwolves in the second half, although Anthony Edwards claimed that the Spurs were tougher to defend without the two-time All-Star because of their faster pace.