David Jones Garcia and the Spurs begin a road trip tonight (Photo via X)
Following a five-game homestand, the San Antonio Spurs play the Suns tonight in Phoenix. San Antonio plays seven of their next eight games on the road. Currently, the Spurs have a record of 11-4 after winning their previous three contests.
The Suns are one of the most surprising teams in the league. At 10-6, Phoenix is tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves for the sixth best record in the Western Conference. Prior to the season, the Suns were widely predicted to miss the playoffs after trading away Kevin Durant in the offseason.
Back on Nov. 2, the Spurs lost to the Suns in Phoenix by a final score of 130-118. That was San Antonio’s first loss of the season. Tonight, the Silver and Black will be out for revenge.
The final two games between these teams will be played in South Texas, with one game in February and one game in March.
San Antonio Spurs Injury Update
Unfortunately, the injury news isn’t getting any better for the Spurs. Victor Wembanyama remains on the sideline with a calf strain. He’s not expected to return until some point in December. In fact, he’s not even with the team on their current road trip.
Stephon Castle is dealing with a hip injury, while Dylan Harper has a calf strain. Both Castle and Harper are reportedly closer to returning than Wembanyama but neither of their returns are imminent.
Jordan McLaughlin is also sidelined tonight due to a hamstring injury.
San Antonio Spurs Starting Lineup
It can be argued that the Spurs are missing three of their four best players — which makes San Antonio’s recent wins even more impressive. Expect head coach Mitch Johnson to start De’Aaron Fox at point guard, Devin Vassell at shooting guard, Julian Champagnie at small forward, Harrison Barnes at power forward and Luke Kornet at center.
Off the bench, expect Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan and Kelly Olynyk to get a majority of the minutes. David Jones Garcia, who graded out as an A+ against the Hawks, could also see more playing time tonight in Phoenix.
Betting Guide: Spurs at Suns
The Suns are favored by 2.5 points and the over/under is 234.5 points. The smart money is on the over. Both teams are playing well and the Spurs should be extra energized after getting an extra day of rest.