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Injuries to key players force the Spurs to adapt their game plan against the Trail Blazers.Philadelphia Today
The San Antonio Spurs have announced that star rookie Victor Wembanyama and veteran guard Stephon Castle will both miss the team’s upcoming game against the Portland Trail Blazers due to injuries. Wembanyama suffered a left rib contusion in Monday’s win over the Philadelphia 76ers, while Castle is dealing with right knee soreness.
Why it matters
Wembanyama and Castle are two of the Spurs’ most important players, so their absences will be a significant challenge as the team looks to maintain its position in the Western Conference playoff race. The Spurs are hoping both players can return to action soon to help the team make a push toward the postseason.
The details
Wembanyama played just 15:40 against the 76ers on Monday, scoring 17 points with 5 rebounds and 3 blocks. That was enough to officially count as a game played toward his eligibility for individual awards like MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, but he still needs one more game of at least 20 minutes to meet the league’s minimum requirements. Castle had a triple-double in that same game, with 17 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds.
Wembanyama suffered his rib injury during the first half of Monday’s game against the 76ers.Castle was listed as doubtful for Wednesday’s game with right knee soreness following the win over Philadelphia.
The players
Victor Wembanyama
A highly touted rookie forward for the San Antonio Spurs who is considered a top MVP and Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
Stephon Castle
A veteran guard for the San Antonio Spurs who had a triple-double in the team’s most recent game.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Spurs’ upcoming opponent, a Western Conference team that the Spurs will be facing without two of their key players.
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What’s next
The Spurs will need to find a way to win without Wembanyama and Castle when they take on the Trail Blazers on Wednesday night. The team is hoping both players can return to action soon to help them make a push toward the playoffs.
The takeaway
The Spurs’ depth will be tested as they try to win without two of their top players. Wembanyama’s injury status will also be closely watched, as he needs one more game of at least 20 minutes played to be eligible for individual awards like MVP and Defensive Player of the Year.