Raise your hand if you’ve heard this one before: the San Antonio Spurs will be without several key rotational players for tonight’s matchup. Injuries have become the defining theme of the 2024-25 NBA season for the Silver and Black, and the unfortunate truth is that there’s no end in sight. It feels like every game comes with an asterisk next to the player list, as the basketball gods continue to dish out their misfortune. Still, the show must go on, and despite the obstacles, San Antonio’s next game against the Portland Trail Blazers is no exception.
The Spurs’ Injury Woes Continue
In an all-too-familiar turn of events, Spurs fans are preparing to watch yet another game without some of their most important pieces. Rookies and veterans alike are falling victim to the injury bug, and this time, rookie Stephon Castle’s streak of good health has come to an end.
Castle, who had appeared in all 24 games to date, was expected to play despite lingering shoulder soreness. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case tonight, as he’s officially listed as out. Castle’s absence is a tough blow for a team that has already been scraping the bottom of the bench for contributors. But he’s not alone in the “out” column.
Spurs Injury Report:
- Stephon Castle (Out) – Left shoulder
- Zach Collins (Out) – Lower back
- Keldon Johnson (Out) – Left calf
- Tre Jones (Out) – Left shoulder
It’s been a season full of these kinds of updates, and though the Spurs’ injury report reads like a who’s who of the team’s key contributors, head coach Gregg Popovich and company continue to soldier on. The good news? Despite being shorthanded, the Spurs have found ways to stay competitive.
The Trail Blazers Are a Beatable Opponent
Portland enters tonight’s contest with a record of 8-16, and they’re dealing with their own set of injuries. While the Spurs are without several rotation players, the Trail Blazers will also be missing key pieces. Matisse Thybulle is out with a right ankle injury, and big man Duop Reath is doubtful with a lower back issue. Deandre Ayton, who has been struggling with illness, is questionable, as are Donovan Clingan (left knee) and Robert Williams III (concussion).
When the Spurs last faced the Trail Blazers back on November 7, they overcame a laundry list of injuries to claim a 118-105 victory. San Antonio was missing Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan that night, and rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama had an uncharacteristically quiet game with just 12 points. But the team rallied around a collective effort, and even without their stars, the Spurs showed they could impose their will on a team like Portland.
Next Man Up: Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley Step Up
Expect another heavy dose of Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley tonight, both of whom were key contributors in the win over Portland last month. Branham, who tied Keldon Johnson for the team lead in scoring with 17 points, will likely be called upon to play an even bigger role in the absence of Johnson. Wesley, who added 10 points while shooting a perfect 4-for-4 from the field, is also expected to get extended minutes.
Wesley’s performance against the Trail Blazers was particularly impressive, as he not only scored efficiently but also chipped in eight assists—showing his playmaking ability in a larger-than-expected role. With both players poised to take on even more responsibility, it will be interesting to see how they respond to the challenge.
Another positive for the Spurs is the return of Charles Bassey, who missed the last game against Portland but will be available tonight. Bassey’s presence in the paint gives San Antonio added depth in the frontcourt, especially on the defensive end. Expect him to make a significant impact against a Portland team that has struggled to score efficiently this season.
Spurs Should Win Despite the Injuries
Yes, the Spurs are again dealing with a long list of injuries, and yes, their lineup will be thinner than it ideally would be. But Portland is just not a good team. With an 8-16 record, the Trail Blazers have not shown much consistency or ability to challenge stronger teams, and San Antonio—despite its own roster limitations—should be able to impose its will offensively and shut down Portland defensively.
Popovich has always preached a “next man up” mentality, and with Branham, Wesley, and Wembanyama leading the charge, the Spurs should be more than capable of securing a victory tonight. While Spurs fans won’t get to see Castle face off against his old UConn teammate, Donovan Clingan (assuming Clingan suits up), the focus will remain on the win.
It’s never easy to deal with injuries, but the Spurs have shown resilience this season. They have the depth to weather the storm against a team like Portland, and barring a major upset, San Antonio should walk away with a comfortable win when the final buzzer sounds.
Prediction: Spurs Win
Despite the injuries and absences, this is a game the Spurs should win. A mix of veteran leadership and rising stars like Wembanyama, Branham, and Wesley should be more than enough to take down the Trail Blazers. Let’s hope for a solid performance, a much-needed victory, and the continued development of the young core that Spurs fans are eager to watch grow.
