Victor Wembanyama is taking the NBA by storm, but as the playoffs heat up, so does the physical punishment he's enduring. The San Antonio Spurs' phenom avoided a suspension after his ejection in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but the conversation around his treatment on the court is far from over.

Former NBA champion Antonio Daniels shed light on why opponents are zeroing in on Wembanyama. "We've had the conversation about Wimby—if he stays healthy, he's going to be the best player to ever touch a basketball," Daniels said on SiriusXM NBA Radio. "He proves it every time he steps on the floor. But when you can't stop a player, what are your options? This is part of his growth process."

After Game 3, Wembanyama reportedly emerged with scratches and bruises, a pattern that's becoming all too familiar as teams try to slow him down with rugged defense. The Spurs star himself acknowledged the reality of playoff basketball, noting that added contact and punishment come with the territory. However, Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson took a firmer stance after Game 4, calling on the league to protect its rising star. While he didn't condone Wembanyama's elbow on Naz Reid, Johnson said the young star must learn to defend himself if the league doesn't step in, labeling the situation "disgusting."

The Timberwolves edged out a 114-109 win in Game 4, tying the series at 2-2. As Game 5 approaches, all eyes will be on Wembanyama, who's expected to face yet another physical battle. For fans and players alike, this series is a reminder that greatness often comes with a target—and how you handle it defines your legacy.