NBA Notes: Spurs, Victor Wembanyama, Rockets, Alperen Sengun, Mavericks

Spurs

The Spurs remain cautious with Victor Wembanyama, who missed his second straight game Saturday with a hyperextended left knee. Still, there’s optimism.

Coach Mitch Johnson expects Wembanyama to travel with the team to Memphis for Tuesday’s game against the Grizzlies, per Tom Orsborn of The San Antonio Express-News.

That doesn’t guarantee he plays, but it’s a step in the right direction. “He’s looking really good,” Johnson said.

Meanwhile, Keldon Johnson continues to be the emotional engine of the roster. As Jared Weiss of The Athletic notes, Johnson’s energy and presence remain central to San Antonio’s culture. “That guy’s the heart and soul of the team,” Johnson said.

Rockets

Houston took an early hit Saturday when Alperen Sengun suffered a lateral right ankle sprain just over a minute into the game at Dallas and was ruled out shortly thereafter, per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.

The injury came not long after Sengun returned from a calf strain. Backup center Steven Adams also missed his second straight game with an ankle issue, leaving the Rockets thin up front.

Mavericks

Dallas stopped a four-game skid behind a big night from Anthony Davis, who posted 26 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks in 39 minutes, according to Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal.

It marked the 36th time in Davis’ career he’s recorded at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks, tying Tim Duncan for seventh all-time.

The Mavs also got a lift from Max Christie, who continues to trend upward. Christie finished with 24 points and seven rebounds and joked afterward that his three dunks might have been a career high.

“It felt good to be athletic out there,” he said.