Spurs advance to NBA play-off series brink behind Wembanyama in 2026

Victor Wembanyama returned from concussion protocol to lead the Spurs to a 3-1 series lead over Portland with 27 points and seven blocks.

Wembanyama's return fuels Spurs Victor Wembanyama made his play-off return for the San Antonio Spurs and delivered a dominant performance after missing game three due to a concussion suffered in the previous contest on Tuesday. He tallied 27 points, 11 rebounds, seven blocks, and four steals in a 114-93 win over the Portland Trail Blazers in Portland, giving his team a 3-1 series lead in the best-of-seven matchup. The 22-year-old expressed a mix of emotions before stepping on the court, saying he felt 'excitement, frustration' and added, 'I let it all out tonight.' Wembanyama also voiced his dissatisfaction with certain parts of the NBA's concussion protocol, stating, 'I won't get into the details. Ask me again at the end of the season.' ## Spurs' path to series closure The Spurs, who sit as the Western Conference's second seed, can secure the series victory on Tuesday when they host the Trail Blazers back in San Antonio. De'Aaron Fox led the Spurs with a game-high 28 points in their latest win, while Wembanyama's presence provided a significant boost to the team's defensive and offensive efforts. The victory marked a strong comeback for San Antonio after dropping game two in the series. ## Lakers edge closer in West The Los Angeles Lakers also moved one win away from advancing, as they prepare to host their next game on Tuesday. Their series against the Houston Rockets was extended after Houston won 115-96, preventing a sweep and forcing a potential game five. Kevin Durant missed his third game of the series for Houston due to an ankle injury, but the Rockets still managed to have all five starters reach double-digit scoring. Amen Thompson led Houston with 23 points. ## Celtics dominate in East In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics took a commanding 3-1 series lead over Philadelphia after a 128-96 home victory. Payton Pritchard set a play-off career high with 32 points off the bench, while Jayson Tatum contributed 30 points and 11 assists. Joel Embiid made his first appearance of the series for the 76ers but could not prevent the defeat. The Celtics, the Eastern Conference's second seed, now have the chance to close out the series at home on Tuesday. ## Raptors edge Cavaliers in tight contest The Toronto Raptors secured a 93-89 home win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, with Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes each scoring 23 points. The victory leveled the Eastern Conference series at 2-2, setting up game five in Cleveland on Wednesday. Both teams fought hard throughout the closely contested match, with neither side leading by more than six points at any point in the fourth quarter.