Projected No. 1 NBA Pick Victor Wembanyama Talks Load Management, Says Goal Is To Play In ‘The Most Games I Can’

Projected No. 1 NBA Draft pick Victor Wembanyama officially declared for the NBA Draft on Friday with Malika Andrews on ESPN’s NBA Today.

In an era of load management in the NBA, the 7-foot-4 French phenom said he wants to play as much as possible once he comes to the U.S. He has played in all 47 games this season with the Metropolitan 92’s, and has five more regular-season games and then the playoffs. He’s averaging 21.4 points, 9.9 rebounds and 2.3 assists.

“There’s so many games in the NBA season that’s its hard for a lot of players,” he told Andrews in reference to load management. “Obviously, it’s hard to play all 82 games, some players are built for a certain way, others gotta rest sometimes.

He added: “Obviously, my goal is always going to be play the most games I can and to help my team as much as I can…It’s always going to be my priority to be available for my guys and for my teammates as much as possible to help them as much I can. Every time if I have to step on the side it’s always going to be painful.

“I’ve been working more than ever this year on my body with my personal trainer so I know I’m ready to go over all sorts of obstacles. and so far its’ worked pretty well. I haven’t missed a game yet. I was here for my guys so far for every game, so I’m just hoping to keep it that way.”

The NBA Draft Lottery is set for May 16 and the Pistons, Rockets and Spurs all have a 14% chance of landing the No. 1 pick, followed by the Hornets (12.5%), Trail Blazers (10.5%) and Magic (9%).

Wembanyama, who projects to be the highest-drafted French player ever, reiterated he has no preferences where he lands.

“Oh yeah, of course,” he said. “I know every organization is so careful about their players, that there’s no wrong destination.”

LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry and Giannis are among the superstars to call Wembanyama a generational talent.

“I like to see guys that I love so much and I appreciate so much, just to see them talk about me like that, of course I appreciate it but I don’t let that go to my head,” he said. “I try to stay humble and focused on my goals.”