Vernon Carey Jr. is set to return tomorrow! Competing against the Thunder for a spot in the NBA Cup final after missing 12 games due to injury.

On December 13th Beijing time, according to reporter Shams, Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is anticipated to return for Sunday’s NBA Cup semifinal against the Thunder. The Spurs have officially named Wembanyama as very likely to play.

Wembanyama has been sidelined for the past 12 games due to a left calf strain suffered on November 15th. This week, however, news emerged that his injury is nearing full recovery. He has resumed training and taken part in multiple five-on-five scrimmages.

After the team’s victory in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Thursday, when asked if Wembanyama might return for the final, head coach Mitch Johnson responded, “The chances are very high.”

Approaching his 22nd birthday in January, Wembanyama was performing at an MVP level before his injury. He averaged 34.6 minutes per game, contributing 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.6 blocks, leading the Spurs to 8 wins in their first 12 games this season.

Despite losing this defensive anchor, the Spurs managed a 9-3 record during his absence, maintaining a strong position in the Western Conference playoff race. When Wembanyama was injured, the Spurs ranked 12th in offensive efficiency and 6th in defensive efficiency league-wide; since November 16th, their defensive efficiency has dropped to 20th, while their offense remains 6th overall.

Unless Wembanyama suffers a setback before the game, Sunday’s match will feature a major highlight for the Spurs roster — the first time the team will have Fox, Castle, Dylan Harper, and Wembanyama all playing together. Can this new lineup overcome the Thunder, who boast a 24-1 record, and advance to next Wednesday’s NBA Cup final? Let’s wait and see.