Photo: Peter Baba

The San Antonio Spurs have surged into the spotlight, sitting just two games behind the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference after an incredible 23-2 run since February 1.

Their recent form has sparked serious discussion among league insiders about whether this young team could pull off one of the most unexpected championship runs in recent memory.

Much of that belief centers on Victor Wembanyama, whose presence continues to grow both physically and mentally on opponents.

One Eastern Conference scout told ESPN that San Antonio has become his top pick to win it all.

“They’re my favorite now,” the scout said. “His game is going to be even more dominant in the playoffs and every game he’s going to get more and more into your head.

“In Game 1, your players will think about him on some of their shots. By Game 4, they’ll be having full-on nightmares.”

Executives across the league share that sentiment, pointing to the Spurs’ structure and Wembanyama’s impact as key reasons for their confidence.

“They’re a very good team. They’re very well-coached. They’re very well put together,” one executive said. “And Victor is absolutely unguardable.”