Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs at Los Angeles Clippers
San Antonio rolls out a deep roster in Los Angeles.
After Sunday night’s loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, the San Antonio Spurs are officially out of the NBA Playoffs race. With just four games left, the Spurs will look to finish the season with competitiveness, and probably get more of the young guys involved. They’ll face one of the toughest teams in the Western Conference – The Los Angeles Clippers.
For the first time all season, the Spurs have activated both of their two-way players, Harrison Ingram and David Duke Jr. Riley Minix is out, dealing with an injury. We likely see both of these players get spot minutes without a play-in spot on the line.
While a loss would be better for the team’s lottery standings, expect the depleted Spurs to continue competing as they have over the last few weeks.
San Antonio Spurs (32-46) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (46-32)
April 8th, 2025 | 9:30 PM CT
Watch: Fan Duel Southwest | Listen: WOAI (1200 AM)
Spurs Injuries: Jeremy Sochan – Out (low back), De’Aaron Fox – Out (finger), Riley Minix – Out (G League), Victor Wembanyama – Out (shoulder)
Clippers Injuries: Amir Coffey – Out (knee), Kawhi Leonard – Questionable (knee)
What to watch for:
Harrison Ingram watch
The Spurs’ other rookie will suit up for the big league squad on Tuesday. The second-round pick has been up and down in the G League this season. He’s averaged 12.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting 42.8% from the field and 28.3% from deep. The former Tar Heel will likely be used sparingly, but it doesn’t hurt to see how he competes against NBA talent in the last four games.
Stopping Zubac
Ivica Zubac is having a career season for the Clippers. Zubac is averaging 16.5 points and 12.5 rebounds, his career best in both categories. San Antonio is really small right now. A key to staying in this game will be keeping Zubac off the glass and minimizing his impact in the paint. Bismack Biyombo and Charles Bassey will have their hands full inside.
Devin Vassell’s consistency
Devin Vassell has shot the ball well down the stretch of the season. He’s shooting 39.3% from deep after the All-Star break. The only problem is it seems like his shots come in spurts. Vassell has been hot early in games but has disappeared when the Spurs need him in the clutch. Look for Vassell to be a more consistent offensive contributor against the Clippers. His play is key to San Antonio staying in the game.
