Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama enters concussion protocol as Blazers steal Game 2

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama exited Game 2 against the Trail Blazers and has entered the concussion protocol, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Wembanyama was injured in the second quarter when he stumbled on a drive and hit his chin on the floor. He did not return.

Charania reported that Wembanyama will undergo further testing Wednesday. He must now remain inactive for at least 48 hours and meet a series of benchmarks while symptom-free before being cleared.

Before exiting, Wembanyama totaled five points, four rebounds, one block and one assist in 12 minutes. He had also received his Defensive Player of the Year award prior to tipoff.

His absence changed everything.

The No. 7-seeded Blazers capitalized, rallying for a 106-103 win in San Antonio to even the series at one game apiece. It marked a significant swing after the Spurs controlled Game 1 behind Wembanyama’s 36-point performance.

Now, the outlook is far less certain. Until Wembanyama is cleared, San Antonio is expected to rely more on Luke Kornet, with Kelly Olynyk also in line for increased minutes.

Game 3 is up next, in Portland, and the Spurs may be facing it without their best player.