NBA Notes: DPOY, Wemby, Cavs, Embiid, Giannis

NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race Heats Up After Wembanyama’s Season-Ending Injury

Victor Wembanyama was the overwhelming favorite to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award before a deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder ended his season. With the Spurs’ star ruled out, the race is wide open, with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Evan Mobley emerging as favorites. Both players have anchored elite defenses this season, with Memphis and Cleveland’s defensive ratings dropping significantly when they’re off the court. Bam Adebayo, a perennial DPOY contender, remains in the mix, but the Heat’s struggles could hurt his case. Meanwhile, Luguentz Dort has surged into the conversation, leading the league’s top-ranked Thunder defense.

“Honestly, the biggest goal is to go out there and perform every night for my teammates,” Dort told SI.com. “But it will always be nice to get rewarded for the hard work that I do on the court.”

Cavaliers Add Defensive Depth With Javonte Green Signing

Looking to bolster their wing depth, the NBA-best Cleveland Cavaliers (47-10) signed veteran Javonte Green following his buyout from New Orleans. Head coach Kenny Atkinson personally reached out to Green, leveraging their connection from Golden State’s G League system. While Green has yet to debut, he expressed excitement about joining Cleveland’s tight-knit roster.

“I just felt like here was the best fit for me,” Green said. “I’m a very team-oriented player, and I think this team has that

Sixers Hope to Avoid More Surgery for Joel Embiid

The Philadelphia 76ers remain optimistic that Joel Embiid can avoid further surgery on his left meniscus, which was partially removed after his injury in February 2024. Sources suggest that playing through discomfort could be more beneficial than shutting him down, though his long-term health remains a concern. Embiid’s surgery on his left meniscus in February 2024, after Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga fell on his leg, did not result in all of the meniscus cartilage being removed, per hoopshype.com.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Minutes Restriction Eased After Calf Injury

After missing six games with a calf strain, Giannis Antetokounmpo has seen his minutes limit increase. His first two games back entailed a restriction to roughly 24 minutes. In a 32-minute performance against Miami, the two-time MVP delivered 23 points, 16 rebounds, and 7 assists, helping Milwaukee secure a key win.

“Doc Rivers told reporters that Giannis Antetokounmpo will see his minutes limit (roughly 24min) bumped up a little, but he wouldn’t specify a number for tonight’s game.” -Eric Nehm of The Athletic.