An annual survey of NBA general managers revealed Thursday that the league is bracing for a full takeover by Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.
After winning 62 games and making a surprise trip to the NBA Finals last season, the Spurs emerged as the survey’s 2027 championship favorite. General managers also projected Wembanyama to win MVP and to be selected as the league’s best defensive player.
The 7-foot-4 French center received 93% of the votes in response to the question: “If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?”
Spurs Viewed as Favorites, but Not Overwhelming Ones
The general managers did not view the Spurs as overwhelming title favorites. San Antonio received 50% of the votes, narrowly topping the 2025 champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The defending champion New York Knicks, who were picked to win the Eastern Conference, also received title votes. So did the new-look Philadelphia 76ers, who are bolstered by LeBron James and Jaylen Brown.
Wembanyama Dominates the Individual Honors
Wembanyama, 22, was selected as the heavy favorite to win his first MVP award, earning 77% of the votes. Nikola Jokic of Denver received 10%, and Anthony Edwards of Minnesota received 7%.
Wembanyama also earned top marks as the “player who forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments,” the “best international player” and the “most versatile player.” He was not the only Spurs star to receive recognition in the extensive survey.
Dylan Harper, the 2025 No. 2 pick, was voted the player most likely to enjoy a breakthrough season, topping Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg. Veteran forward Tobias Harris, who signed with San Antonio in free agency, was named the offseason’s “most underrated player acquisition.” The Spurs’ young core, which includes Wembanyama, Harper and Stephon Castle, was named the league’s most promising.
76ers Win the Offseason Debate
The general managers named the 76ers winners of the “best overall moves this offseason” for adding James and Brown, ahead of the Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets. However, Miami’s trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo was viewed as the “acquisition who will make the biggest impact.”
The league has surveyed its general managers for the past 25 seasons. This year’s edition featured 48 questions covering players, teams and recent transactions.