Photo: Peter Baba

The San Antonio Spurs announced that Victor Wembanyama will not play in Saturday’s matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers due to soreness in his left knee.

The decision marks the second straight game the rookie star has missed while the team takes a cautious approach.

While the absence may raise some concern, there was some reassurance earlier in the week when imaging on Wembanyama’s knee showed no structural damage.

An MRI conducted Thursday came back clean, suggesting the issue is more about managing discomfort than dealing with a serious injury.

San Antonio’s schedule also factors into the decision.

The Spurs are facing a demanding stretch next week with two sets of back-to-back games, first against the Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by meetings with the Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves over the weekend.