The San Antonio Spurs are off to a strong start this season, winning their first two games of the 2025-26 campaign. Victor Wembanyama has emerged as a frontrunner for the MVP award, showcasing his exceptional skills with impressive statistics: 34.5 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 6.0 blocks, while maintaining a shooting percentage of 63.6% from the field. Alongside him, reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle has contributed significantly as the team’s second-leading scorer. However, the Spurs face a significant challenge as they prepare to host the Brooklyn Nets for their home opener.
Injury Challenges for the Spurs
The Spurs announced their injury report ahead of the matchup against the Nets, revealing that five players will be unavailable:
- De’Aaron Fox (right hamstring strain)
- Luke Kornet (left ankle sprain)
- Kelly Olynyk (left heel surgery)
- Jeremy Sochan (left wrist sprain)
- Lindy Waters III (bilateral eye procedure)
Star guard De’Aaron Fox, standout forward Jeremy Sochan, and crucial big man Kelly Olynyk will not take the floor for the first time this season. Additionally, backup center Luke Kornet will miss his first game since joining the team in the offseason. Without these key players, the Spurs’ depth will be tested as they face the Nets.
Nets’ Situation and Outlook
On the other side, the Brooklyn Nets have struggled this season, failing to secure a win in their initial outings. Despite this, they enter the game against the Spurs with a health advantage. The Nets’ injury list includes:
- Haywood Highsmith (right knee surgery recovery)
- Drake Powell (right ankle sprain)
- Danny Wolf (left ankle sprain)
However, they have upgraded Cam Thomas to available despite battling a nasal fracture. Thomas has been a standout for the Nets, averaging 24.0 points and 5.5 assists per game.
Matchup Preview
While the Nets have shown some promise, including a narrow seven-point loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, they still face a formidable Spurs team. Even with multiple injuries, the Spurs are expected to leverage their talent advantage at home. The matchup is set for Sunday at 2:00 p.m. ET in San Antonio. Given the circumstances, it remains to be seen how the Spurs will adapt and whether they can secure a third consecutive victory against a struggling Nets team.
