San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has been listed as doubtful for the team's upcoming game on Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers. The rookie sensation is currently sidelined due to a rib contusion, an injury sustained during a collision in Monday's victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

The injury occurred in the second quarter of the game when Wembanyama collided with 76ers forward Paul George. Following comprehensive testing conducted on Tuesday, medical staff determined that Wembanyama had fortunately avoided any significant or long-term injury, classifying his status as day-to-day. This provides some relief regarding his overall health, although it impacts his immediate playing schedule and, more critically, his eligibility for prestigious postseason awards.

A crucial aspect of Wembanyama's current situation revolves around these end-of-season accolades. Because he played only 15 minutes and 40 seconds in Monday's game, that particular appearance will not count towards the minimum requirements for award eligibility. To maintain his standing for these honors, Wembanyama must play at least 20 minutes in one of San Antonio's final three regular season games.

Wembanyama is widely considered the leading candidate for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award and is also a strong contender for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, showcasing his dominant impact in his debut season. His potential exclusion from award consideration due to playing time would be a significant development in the league.

The Spurs have three games remaining on their schedule to close out the regular season. After facing the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday, they are set to host the Dallas Mavericks on Friday and then the Denver Nuggets on Sunday. Wembanyama's return to the court for at least 20 minutes in either the Mavericks or Nuggets game would secure his eligibility for the coveted awards.

Currently, the San Antonio Spurs hold a record of 60 wins and 19 losses. While it remains an outside possibility, the team technically still has a chance to catch the Oklahoma City Thunder (62-16) for the coveted No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. However, this scenario would require the Thunder to lose at least three of their final four games for the Spurs to have an opportunity to move up in the standings. This report includes contributions from ESPN's Michael C. Wright.