点击查看原文：Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns
Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns
After an All-Star breather, the Spurs look to get back in the win column
Well, here we go again. The Spurs are back in action after the All-Star break, and they’re looking to hit the ground running against the star-studded but slumping Phoenix Suns.
With some much-needed rest and time to regroup, San Antonio is eager to build momentum as they enter the final stretch of the season, centered around their generational unicorn, Victor Wembanyama.
The Spurs and the Suns have enjoyed somewhat of a return to a classic regular season rivalry when Wemby and Durant are on the floor at the same time. Unfortunately, Wembanyama’s availability remains hazy in the wake of some unnamed respiratory illness.
When they’re all on (and healthy) at the same time, the Suns boast one of the most dangerous offensive trios in the league. With Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal leading the charge, Phoenix can be a nightmare to defend, capable of putting up points in a hurry from anywhere on the floor.
The big challenge for San Antonio? Finding a way to slow down an offense that ranks among the best in efficiency when the Suns are at their best (and is still 11th in offensive rating despite the infrequency of that occurrence) while exploiting Phoenix’s defensive weaknesses.
While the Suns are known for their offensive firepower, their defense is so miserable that their net rating this season is actually the same as San Antonio’s, even with San Antonio sitting in the middle of the league statistically on both ends.
They’ve struggled to contain teams in transition and often rely on their scoring to outpace opponents. This could open the door for the Spurs to push the tempo and get easy looks before Phoenix can set up its half-court defense. If Wembanyama and the young core can capitalize on those opportunities, the Suns may simply buckle defensively, and the rout will be on.
One key match-up to watch is Wembanyama versus the remains of the Suns front-court, now that the oft-injured Jusuf Nurkic has been exiled to Charlotte. If he can establish himself early and force the Suns to adjust, it could create openings for San Antonio’s shooters and newly acquired slashing point-guard. The back-court battle will also be crucial, especially De’Aaron Fox and the rest of the Spurs’ guards, who’ll need to step up defensively against Booker and Beal.
The last time these teams met, Phoenix’s offensive talent proved too much for San Antonio to handle. But with fresh legs and renewed energy after the break, the Spurs are looking to flip the script.
The key to pulling off an upset? Playing with pace, staying disciplined on defense, and making sure Wembanyama gets plenty of touches in advantageous spots. If Wembanyama ends up being unavailable, an emphasis on collapsing the perimeter and challenging the Suns at the rim needs to be maintained at all costs.
Even if Wemby doesn’t play, Spurs fans have plenty to be excited about. This game represents another test for a young squad eager to make their mark downing a fading Western Conference playoff regular.
So buckle up, Spurs fans. Whether it’s the dawn of a new era or just another chapter in Wemby’s sophomore season, one thing’s for sure—San Antonio isn’t backing down from the challenge.
Phoenix Suns at San Antonio Spurs
Feburary 20th, 2025 | 8:30 CT
Watch: TNT |Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)
Spurs Injuries: Charles Bassey - Out (Knee), Victor Wembanyama - Questionable (Illness)
Suns Injuries: Cody Martin - Questionable (Hernia), Devin Booker - Questionable (Back), Bradley Beal - Questionable (Toe), Grayson Allen - Questionable (Knee)
For the Suns’ fan’s perspective, please visit Bright Side Of The Sun.
PtR’s Game thread will be up this evening for those who want to chat through the game. You can also follow along with the action through PtR’s Twitter feed.