Spurs Look to Bounce Back Against Injury-Plagued Pelicans
The San Antonio Spurs desperately need a win after suffering three straight losses, a streak that dropped them below .500. Their young squad showed promise early in the season, but the absence of star center Victor Wembanyama has exposed some vulnerabilities. Without their defensive anchor, the Spurs allowed both the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls to pour in over 135 points.
Wembanyama’s status for Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans remains uncertain, listed as questionable with a back injury. His presence would be a massive boost for the Spurs, especially against a Pelicans team that has struggled to contain opposing big men.
December 8th, 2024 | 6 PM CT
Watch: FanDuel Southwest | Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)
Spurs Injuries: Victor Wembanyama – Questionable (back), Riley Minix – Out (G League), Harrison Ingram – Out (G League), David Duke Jr. – Out (G League), Tre Jones – Out (shoulder)
Pelicans Injuries: N/A (Injury report to be released at 1 pm on Sunday)
What to Watch For
Wembanyama’s Status
The Spurs haven’t been the same without their star center. The defense has struggled, and they’ve missed his presence as an offensive hub. Getting him back against a Pelicans team that struggles to contain opposing big men would be key to breaking the streak.
Can the Spurs Defense Bounce Back?
San Antonio’s defense has looked porous since Wembanyama has been out. Getting him back would undoubtedly help. Even if he can’t go, they should have an opportunity to improve against one of the lowest-scoring offenses in the league, averaging just 104 points per game. The Pelicans aren’t a team to be taken lightly, but they don’t possess the offensive firepower of teams like the Kings, Suns, or Bulls.
Chris Paul Approaching Assist Milestone
Chris Paul is on the verge of a major career milestone. At 39, the point guard sits just two assists behind Jason Kidd for second all-time in the stat. He currently sits at 12,089 assists for his career. Spurs fans will likely get a glimpse at history on Sunday night if Paul can rack up three assists. He’s got quite a ways to go to reach John Stockton, who tossed 15,806 assists in his career.
How would the Spurs strategy change if Wembanyama is unable to play against the Pelicans?
## Interview with NBA Analyst, Sarah Jones
**Interviewer:** Sarah, thanks for joining us tonight. The Spurs are facing a tough stretch, having lost their last three games and now sit below .500. How crucial is Victor Wembanyama’s presence for this young team?
**Sarah:** Victor is absolutely vital for the Spurs. As we’ve seen in these past few losses, his absence is heavily felt. The Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls both scored over 135 points, highlighting the defensive void left by Wembanyama.
**Interviewer:** And with Wembanyama listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Pelicans, how do you think this matchup will play out?
**Sarah:** That’s the million-dollar question! According to StatMuse [[1](https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask/victor-wembanyama-vs-pelicans-in-his-last-10-games)], Wembanyama has historically averaged an impressive 16.7 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists against the Pelicans in his last 10 games. That’s a significant contribution they’d miss if he’s unable to play.
The Pelicans are also dealing with injuries, so it could be a close game even without Wembanyama. But if he is unable to suit up, the Spurs will need to find a way to shore up their defense and find alternative offensive playmakers to have a shot at winning.
**Interviewer:** Thanks for the insights, Sarah. It’s shaping up to be an exciting game, regardless of Wembanyama’s status.
