The San Antonio Spurs are set to further integrate a vital player back into their lineup as they prepare to host the Sacramento Kings on Monday night. This matchup is part of a five-game homestand for the Spurs, during which they have split their initial two games. They claimed a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday, only to experience a narrow defeat, 111-110, against the Utah Jazz on Saturday.
In Saturday's game, rising star Victor Wembanyama demonstrated his impact on the court with 24 points and 16 rebounds. However, Wembanyama's involvement came under scrutiny when he was called for a late-game offensive foul on a pick, a call that played a significant role in the Spurs' loss. In addition to Wembanyama's standout performance, rookie guard Stephon Castle also made waves, scoring a career-high 23 points in just his third start. Meanwhile, Devin Vassell contributed 21 points, Keldon Johnson added 14, and Harrison Barnes chipped in 10 points in the hard-fought contest.
Reflecting on his record-breaking performance, Castle highlighted the team's cohesion and the confidence they instill in each other. “My guys have been in the gym with me,” Castle explained. “We trust each other to take shots, and if we’re open, we’re encouraged to shoot. It’s all about taking those opportunities with confidence.”
For Vassell, Saturday marked his long-awaited return to play after a challenging seven-month recovery from a broken foot. Following the game, he acknowledged the personal struggle and the drive to get back on the court with his teammates. “I haven’t played in a long time,” he said. “During the offseason, it was frustrating because all I wanted was to be out there. But my teammates and the staff helped me get back in shape, and now I’m just happy to be back.”
San Antonio enters Monday’s game having split their last four outings. This matchup will be the Spurs' first opportunity to face the Kings this season, who will be arriving in the Alamo City fresh from a 127-118 overtime victory against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.
In their thrilling win over Phoenix, DeMar DeRozan led the Kings with an impressive 34-point performance. Notably, three other Kings starters also posted double-doubles: De’Aaron Fox recorded 21 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists; Domantas Sabonis delivered 20 points and 12 rebounds; and Keegan Murray contributed 14 points and 14 rebounds. Kevin Huerter added 17 points, underscoring Sacramento’s balanced offensive firepower.
The Kings' recent success includes three wins in their last four games. While DeRozan garners the most attention as a high-profile addition, Huerter has been instrumental as well. After joining Sacramento from the Atlanta Hawks in July 2022, Huerter’s value has been undeniable. The 6-foot-7 guard endured a grueling 6 ½-month rehabilitation following season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder in April. Huerter, who is currently averaging 11.3 points per game, admitted he’s still finding his rhythm with the team’s updated lineup and new offensive system. “A couple of new guys on our team and a new offense, so I’m trying to fully immerse myself with the team and kind of get my feet under me,” Huerter explained. “It’s been a rigorous summer, but I’m glad to be back.”
Adding to the Kings' challenge on Monday, their super-sub Malik Monk is questionable after suffering an ankle injury early in Sunday’s game. Monk left in the second quarter after twisting his ankle upon landing on Suns center Mason Plumlee’s foot. His status remains uncertain and will likely be determined closer to game time.