Victor Wembanyama is a unique NBA talent blocking the Knicks’ path

Strategies to Counter Victor Wembanyama

LAS VEGAS — Every team seems to think they have a strategy to slow down Victor Wembanyama, but, honestly, few really pull it off.

If you try to match his 7-foot-4 frame with strength, he’ll just pull defenders to the perimeter and use his speed. On the other hand, if you opt for smaller players, he can physically overpower them. Teams have attempted to use versatile players, like the Knicks did with OG Anunoby, who can guard multiple positions, but even then, Wembanyama often finds ways to shoot over them.

Players such as Kevin Durant and Kristaps Porzingis have demonstrated how size can redefine normal limits on the court, but Wembanyama—he’s, well, a different kind of unicorn, unlike anything the NBA has encountered before.

Now, the Knicks are gearing up to face the Spurs in the NBA Cup Finals on Tuesday, and they have some formidable challenges ahead.

“You can’t expect to guard someone like him one-on-one,” Knicks coach Mike Brown shared after practice on Monday. “We focus on using length and physicality on defense, ensuring all five players are alert to protect the ball. It’s crucial against someone like Wembanyama. We have some solid defenders, and hopefully, they make it challenging for him to attack, keeping in mind the support they’ll have.”

Brown is likely to assign Anunoby as the primary defender against Wembanyama.

Anunoby brings a balanced mix of height and quickness. Plus, he’s the most aggressive player on the Knicks roster. Given Wembanyama’s lean build, that physicality could be a crucial factor.

“Guarding great players is always a challenge, but it’s a learning experience,” Anunoby noted. “The key is to disrupt his rhythm, make it tough for him, and force tougher shots. Sure, he’s going to make some, but keeping him as uncomfortable as possible helps.”

Another option for Brown could be Karl-Anthony Towns, who stands tall in the starting lineup.

Since transitioning to center, Towns has found himself closer to the basket, which has made a noticeable difference defensively. While he was often stretched thin as a power forward alongside Mitchell Robinson, playing further from the paint revealed his weaknesses, especially against players like Wembanyama.

“He’s incredibly skilled,” Towns reflected. “For us, we have to execute our defensive strategy well. Execution is our focus.”

If Anunoby defends Wembanyama, Towns will likely need to deal with Harrison Barnes, who typically plays outside, pulling him well beyond the paint. This kind of strategy certainly complicates Brown’s plans.

Wembanyama recently returned from a calf injury, contributing to the Spurs’ win over the Thunder in the semifinals. He came off the bench to manage his minutes, and coach Mitch Johnson hasn’t specified if that approach will continue.

That might leave room for Robinson to guard Wembanyama instead. He’s taller than Anunoby and quicker than Towns, potentially making him a better fit for that role.

“We’re aiming for a spacing strategy that can really challenge the defense,” Johnson stated. “It’s about protecting our defense with multiple players, creating difficulties in positioning.”