NBA analyst boldly favors Victor Wembanyama's 'impact' over Nikola Jokic's despite 123 +/- disparity

Victor Wembanyama has been a sensation in the NBA. His record-breaking performances and impressive stats led NBA analyst Brian Scalabrine on Friday's episode of SiriusXM "NBA Radio" to favor the Frenchman over Denver Nuggets' Nikola Jokic.

The analyst favored Wemby's impact over Jokic despite the reigning MVP's significantly better +/- rating (123 points higher).

"Wembanyama, I think he impacts more plays than even Nikola Jokic. I see guys driving, and everytime they drive, they take a look at where's Wemby ... I've never seen NBA players that's constantly aware of where's Wembanyama's at all times ... He's that so much of an impact defensively. Then offensively, where do you stop him," Scalabrine said.

Wembanyama is in his second year in the NBA and has already shown potential beyond his age. His rookie season was compared in terms of the same hype received by LeBron James during his rookie season.

As a 7-foot-3 center, he has also shown remarkable shooting and handling. This has made him a formidable opponent to play against, both offensively and defensively.

Jokic, on the other hand, is a veteran in the league. His performances this season have him as the leading MVP candidate in the straw poll released by ESPN.

At 20 years old, Wembanyama still has a lot to learn and has shown growth potential. With the right moves, he has what it takes to reach even greater heights. The Spurs this season have also improved from their last season woes.

---

Victor Wembanyama close to the top five in MVP rankings

Victor Wembanyama's second season in the league has seen him being compared to the greats, and the latest edition of the NBA MVP rankings has him knocking at the top five.

Image Source: Imagn

Wembanyama currently ranks higher than New York Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns, Cleveland Cavaliers' Donovan Mitchell, Sacramento Kings' De'Aaron Fox, and James.

Above the Frenchman is Jokic, Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo, OKC Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Dallas Mavericks' Luka Doncic, and Boston Celtics' Jayson Tatum.

This season, Victor Wembanyama is averaging a double-double of 22.5 points and 10.5 rebounds. He is also contributing 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 3.7 blocks per contest. Additionally, he is shooting at 46.9% from the field and 33.7% from beyond the arc.