The San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Lakers will face a quick turnaround when they clash in a Western Conference matchup in San Antonio on Wednesday night. This game will mark the second of back-to-back contests for both teams, with the Spurs traveling from Salt Lake City and the Lakers from Phoenix.
The Spurs return home after a thrilling 128-115 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday, marking their season-high fourth consecutive win. This is the first time San Antonio has achieved such a streak since the 2021-22 season. Victor Wembanyama led the charge with 24 of his 34 points in the first half, supported by Stephon Castle’s career-high-tying 23 points and Julian Champagnie’s 15 points.
San Antonio’s win keeps them alive in Group B play of the NBA Cup with a 2-1 record, maintaining their chance to advance to the West quarterfinals. The Spurs led 103-100 midway through the fourth quarter before a 13-3 run, capped by a three-pointer from Champagnie, sealed the game. Chris Paul’s pull-up three-pointer with 2:08 left ensured the Spurs’ victory.
The Lakers enter San Antonio after a 127-100 loss to the Phoenix Suns. This defeat extends Los Angeles’ losing streak to three games, placing them in a tie with Phoenix and San Antonio in the West Group B standings. Tuesday’s game saw the Lakers falter after a competitive first half, giving up a 14-2 run in the third quarter and trailing by as many as 27 points.
Anthony Davis led the Lakers with 25 points and 15 rebounds, while LeBron James added 18 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds. D’Angelo Russell scored 16 points off the bench, and Austin Reeves chipped in 15. Russell, praised by coach JJ Redick for his consistent contributions since moving to the bench, continues to be a key player for Los Angeles.
The Lakers previously defeated the Spurs 120-115 on November 15 in the NBA Cup opener. Following Wednesday’s matchup, the teams will face each other twice more this season in Los Angeles.
