Spurs' Victor Wembanyama downplays knee injury

San Antonio star center Victor Wembanyama hyperextended his left knee in the Spurs' home victory over the New York Knicks on Wednesday, but he doesn't expect to miss any additional time.

Wembanyama came down awkwardly with 10:32 to play in the game as he attempted to secure an offensive rebound. He stayed down until teammate Stephon Castle helped him up, then hobbled straight to the locker room while giving fans reassurance and saying, "I'm fine. I'm fine."

He later came back to the bench but didn't return to action.

After the Spurs rallied for a 134-132 win, Wembanyama said he would have tests done on Thursday, but, "I expect to be back the next game."

He added, according to ESPN, "I was confident. I was this close to coming back in the game. (They) had to hold me back. It was just a hyperextension, so it should be minimal. We've got to do everything tomorrow still to check that everything's OK."

San Antonio coach Mitch Johnson said following the game, "I have no idea what to say, but it was good to see him walk back out and be able to finish the game on the bench with his teammates."

Wembanyama amassed 31 points and 13 rebounds in 24 minutes before leaving the game with the Spurs down 102-96.

In 21 games this season, Wembanyama is averaging 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists. He was sidelined for 12 games from Nov. 16-Dec. 10 due to a left calf strain. Upon his return, he spent six games coming off the bench on a minutes restriction before rejoining the starting lineup last weekend.

--Field Level Media