This wild stat should make the Spurs' Wembanyama an early favorite for a major award

The San Antonio Spurs may take a big step back toward playoff contention next season with the help of star Victor Wembanyama. Wembanyama more than lived up to the hype as a rookie, posting stellar numbers on both sides of the ball and projecting to be far better offensively thanks to the addition of Chris Paul.

However, he could be equally impactful on the defensive end. Wembanyama is a potential game-changing defensive player, with him leading the league in blocks and blocks per game as a rookie. His impact goes beyond blocks, however, with him being a huge rim deterrent that seemingly makes him the scarecrow, whereas would-be drivers are the crows themselves. A new hilariously named stat confirms what those who often watch him play see.

A new hilariously named stat confirms what we already know about Victor Wembanyama's game.

HELLLNAH's is a stat that tracks how often a player attacks the paint with a particular rim protector within six feet of the basket rim, sees them, turns tail, and dribbles back out. Wembanyama led all players in that new category with 11 in just 71 games, with players noping out instead of challenging him. Despite that, the Spurs ranked 22nd in defensive rating, though his on-and-off metrics rivaled those of Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert.

Fortunately for the Spurs, they have a much deeper team that features more veterans, which should help them shore up their holes on the defensive end. Paul isn't an elite defender any longer but he still has the know-how to make an impact, especially with Wembanyama watching his six. They also have capable defenders such as Devin Vassell, Jeremy Sochan, and rookie Stephon Castle, giving them enough players to help Wembanyama build a top-10 defense.

Overall, the HELLNAH's stat confirms Wembanyama's impact on the defensive end. With more help around him, he can make a bigger impact on defense, helping the Spurs make a playoff push next season.