The 2026 NBA Finals have been thrilling, with the New York Knicks leading the San Antonio Spurs 2-0. The series has been closer than the score suggests, particularly as the Spurs were favored after defeating the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs' star forward and Defensive Player of the Year, has faced significant challenges, struggling against the Knicks' defense. In Game 1, he shot just 6-of-21, and in Game 2, he attempted only four shots in the first half, contributing to four turnovers, including a critical mistake in the final seconds. NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley have weighed in on Wembanyama's performance, with O'Neal criticizing his effort and Barkley reminding fans of the challenges young players face in their first Finals. Wembanyama's averages of 27.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 40.5% shooting reflect his potential but also highlight the need for improvement as he faces seasoned opponents like Karl Anthony-Towns and Mitchell Robinson, who have effectively neutralized his game.