Spurs Look to Build Momentum Without Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs are still reeling from the news that Victor Wembanyama will miss the rest of the season due to deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) in his right shoulder. Yet, the Spurs rallied to defeat the Phoenix Suns 120-109 on Thursday in their first game without their rising star.

Now, San Antonio (23-30) will take on the Detroit Pistons (29-26) in Austin, Texas, on Friday, looking for back-to-back wins.

San Antonio Adjusts to Life Without Wembanyama

Wembanyama’s season-ending diagnosis is a significant blow for a Spurs team that has relied on his dominance on both ends of the floor. The rookie sensation led the league in blocks (176) and had a team-best 27 double-doubles before being sidelined.

Despite the emotional setback, De’Aaron Fox stepped up with 26 points against the Suns, including 11 straight points in the final 3:18 to seal the victory.

“We’ve got a job to do,” Fox said. “Obviously, one person is not going to be able to maintain the production Vic gave us, so we have to come together and do it together.”

Chris Paul contributed 13 points and 10 assists, while Keldon Johnson and Julian Champagnie provided 15 points each off the bench.

Acting head coach Mitch Johnson emphasized that Wembanyama’s long-term health is not a concern, and the team expects him back next season.

“There is no concern for Victor’s health personally (long term) or his basketball activities,” Johnson said.

Pistons Return From Break With Momentum

While the Spurs played Thursday, the Pistons have been off for nine days after closing out the first half of the season with four consecutive wins.

Detroit wrapped up back-to-back victories over Chicago just before the All-Star break, including a 128-110 road win on Feb. 14.

Cade Cunningham led the way with 29 points
Ausar Thompson and Tobias Harris each added 19 points
Jalen Duren dominated inside with 16 points and 14 rebounds

Detroit entered the break in sixth place in the Eastern Conference, marking the first time since 2009 that the team had a winning record at the break.

Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff sees this as a crucial moment for his squad.

“As the level of competition rises, our focus has to rise,” Bickerstaff said. “The rest of the season is going to be a great challenge, and we are looking forward to it.”

Key Matchup: Fox vs. Cunningham

With Wembanyama out, the focus shifts to De’Aaron Fox vs. Cade Cunningham, a battle between two dynamic lead guards.

Fox (Spurs): 24.2 PPG, 6.8 APG, 4.3 RPG
Cunningham (Pistons): 22.5 PPG, 6.9 APG, 4.2 RPG

Both players have been on fire lately, and their ability to control the tempo and create scoring opportunities will likely decide this game.

Game Information

Date: Friday, February 23, 2025
Location: Moody Center – Austin, Texas
Tip-off: 8:30 PM ET
Broadcast: ESPN

Head-to-Head This Season:

First meeting (Spurs won both games last season)
Rematch: March 25 in Detroit

Prediction & Final Thoughts

The Spurs proved against Phoenix that they can win without Wembanyama, but the Pistons are one of the NBA’s hottest teams right now.

With Cunningham leading the charge, Duren anchoring the paint, and Detroit fresh after the break, the Pistons might have the edge in this one.

San Antonio Spurs vs Detroit Pistons Picks and Predictions February 21st 2025