San Antonio Spurs Must Seize Chance vs. Injury-Ridden Dallas Mavericks
The San Antonio Spurs ended their 18-game losing streak on Dec. 15 against the Los Angeles Lakers but have had little going for them in the three games since, all losses.
But as the Spurs (4-23) visit the Dallas Mavericks (16-12) on Saturday, an opportunity to steal a road win is well within reach.
The Mavs are on a three-game losing streak following Friday's 122-96 loss to the Houston Rockets, and will have to make the quick trip back to Dallas for a back-to-back against the Spurs. This quick turnaround doesn't help the status of six Mavs that have already been ruled out for the game.
© Daniel Dunn, USA TODAY
Here's Dallas' lengthy injury report:
- SF Josh Green (OUT - Right Elbow Sprain)
- PG Kyrie Irving (OUT - Right Heel Contusion)
- PF Maxi Kleber (OUT - Right Small Toe Dislocation)
- C Dereck Lively II (OUT - Left Ankle Sprain)
While Dallas still has the talent capable of beating a San Antonio squad that is currently one of the worst teams in the league, it certainly helps the psyche of the young Spurs that first-name-basis stars like Luka and Kyrie aren't going to be playing.
The Mavs will also be a bit short on frontcourt depth with the rookie Lively II and Kleber both out. This would ideally open up more looks for Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama, who scored a season-low seven points in Thursday's 114-95 loss to the Chicago Bulls.
Regardless, the Spurs have a golden opportunity in front of them to get a road win and a much-needed morale boost. The improved Rockets limited a short-handed Dallas team to below 100 points. Without Doncic and Irving, the production was lacking on offense.
There would be a major asterisk if the Spurs win, but a team that's been desperate for victories this season would hardly care.
Saturday's game begins at 7:30 p.m. CT.
