Dylan Harper and the Spurs need to win Game 2 (Photo via X)
The San Antonio Spurs let Game 1 slip away. They led for most of the night, built a 14-point cushion and regained the lead in the final minutes. Then everything unraveled. The New York Knicks closed on an 11-0 run, grabbed a 105-95 win and suddenly the Spurs are the team feeling pressure heading into Game 2.
The good news is the Spurs have plenty they can clean up. This wasn’t one of those games where San Antonio got completely outclassed. The Spurs defended well for long stretches, won a lot of the hustle areas and got enough from their supporting cast to win. The stars simply didn’t play well enough offensively, and the crunch-time execution fell apart.
San Antonio Spurs Injury Update
The Spurs have a clean injury report entering Game 2. After having to manage injuries throughout the Western Conference playoffs, San Antonio goes into tonight without any listed health concerns.
In the second half of Game 1, Victor Wembanyama limped off the court after banging knees with Josh Hart. He refused medical attention on the sidelines and there are no reports that he’s dealing with any repercussions.
New York Knicks Injury Update
New York’s main injury note is Mitchell Robinson, who is listed as probable with a hand injury. However, considering that he was able to play in Game 1, it’s all but guaranteed that he will suit up tonight.
Robinson is an important part of the Knicks. His offensive rebounding is an elite strength. He’s also a quality lob threat who can credibly defend Wembanyama. Outside of Karl-Anthony Towns, Robinson guarded Wembanyama as much as anyone.
San Antonio Spurs Starting Lineup
Expect Mitch Johnson to stick with the usual starting five: Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie and Wembanyama. There is no reason to make a dramatic change after one game, especially when the Spurs were in position to win despite getting poor shooting nights from many including Wembanyama and Fox.
The bigger question is what Johnson does with the rotation when the game tightens up. Harper not being on the floor for the biggest possessions of Game 1 stood out. The coaching staff may also consider shortening the rotation.
Betting Guide: Spurs vs. Knicks
The Spurs are favored by 6.5 points and the over/under is 217.5. The smart money is on the under. Both teams played great defense in Game 1 and that should continue going forward.