Whatever momentum the San Antonio Spurs had been building during their four-game winning streak came to a halt last week when they lost an exhausting game to the Los Angeles Lakers on the second game of a back-to-back. Now, with three days of rest under their best, the rejuvenated Spurs will look to get back on track against the Sacramento Kings.
The Kings are in a rough early stretch of their season, losing five of their last six games, including a recent loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. San Antonio handled the Kings in a 20-point victory in the previous matchup this season. Victor Wembanyama and Domantas Sabonis traded buckets, as Wemby had 34 points and 14 rebounds, while Sabonis had 23 points and 12 rebounds. Those two modern giants will clash again in a pivotal game for both teams, as the Spurs look to stay above .500, and the Kings try to get there.
December 1st, 2024 | 8 PM CT
Watch: KENS5 | Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)
*NOTE: On a back-to-back, teams must report injury report by 1 p.m. the day of the game
Spurs Injuries: Jeremy Sochan – Out (thumb), Riley Minix – Out (G League), Harrison Ingram – Out (G League), David Duke Jr. – Out (G League)
Kings Injuries: Devin Carter – Out (shoulder), Isaiah Crawford – Out (G League), DeMar DeRozan – Probable (back), Kevin Huerter – Doubtful (ankle), Mason Jones – Out (G League), Trey Lyles – Out (calf)
What to watch for
The battle inside
The Kings and Spurs have been an interesting interior matchup over the last two seasons. Sabonis is one of the strongest big men in the league, and Wembanyama is one of the longest. Sabonis has used his strength and touch to create advantages in the paint, but Wemby has won a few reps with his length and instincts as a rim protector. Wembanyama’s ability to win the matchup will be a deciding factor in the game.
Can Devin Vassell find his rhythm?
Vassell has played just five games this season due to recovery from various injuries. He hasn’t necessarily looked like himself in any of those contests. Vassell is averaging 15.8 points and three assists on 45.8% shooting from the field and 40% from three. The Spurs will continue to slowly reintegrate him with the team, bringing him off the bench and restricting his minutes. San Antonio could use his scoring and shooting punch. Vassell finding his rhythm would be a big boost for the team on Sunday.
Castle vs. Fox
Stephon Castle has found himself in a perimeter defensive-stopper role for the Spurs. The rookie has quickly become San Antonio’s go-to option for slowing down the opposing team’s best guard. He’ll have a tough challenge ahead of him on Sunday, facing Fox, who is averaging 27.7 points and 5.8 assists. The Kings’ point guard is one of the most explosive scoring guards in the NBA with his combination of speed and touch around the basket. Castle uses his strength and motor to compete against perimeter scorers. Fox is one of the premier athletes in the league. Their matchup will be one to watch.
