Preview: Spurs vs. Lakers – Summer League Game #2
Blake Wesley and the Spurs take on the Lakers in summer league (Photo via Twitter)
The San Antonio Spurs will try to put together another impressive performance in summer league tonight when they take on the Los Angeles Lakers. In their first summer league game of 2023, the Spurs smashed the Charlotte Hornets by a final score of 98-77.
San Antonio was led by Julian Champagnie and Dominick Barlow. Champagnie poured in 30 points in 25 minutes, while adding eight rebounds, four steals and two assists. In 23 minutes, Barlow totaled 24 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks. The Spurs got out to a big lead early on against the Hornets and then cruised to victory.
The Lakers weren’t as fortunate in their summer league debut, falling to the Miami Heat, 107-90. Los Angeles was led by Max Christie’s 17 points and Jalen Hood-Schifino’s 15 points.
When Will Victor Wembanyama Play in Summer League?
Wembanyama won’t played tonight versus the Lakers. Before summer league began, the Spurs announced that Wembanyama wouldn’t play in San Antonio’s first two summer league games, which are being played in Sacramento as part of the California Classic.
On Friday, the Spurs begin play in the Las Vegas Summer League. As it stands, Wembanyama’s summer league debut is reportedly planned for Friday’s contest — a rematch against the Hornets.
San Antonio Spurs Starting Lineup
Malaki Branham didn’t play in the summer league opener but is expected to play tonight. Branham will likely be joined by point guard Blake Wesley, small forward Julian Champagnie, power forward Cidy Cissoko and center Dominick Barlow.
Once Wembanyama begins playing in summer league, he will likely start at power forward next to Barlow at center.
Sir’Jabari Rice Officially Signs with Spurs
Sir’Jabari Rice, a guard out of the University of Texas, officially inked a two-way contract with the Spurs today. He will wear No. 11 when he suits up for the Silver and Black.
Rice missed San Antonio’s first summer league game due to illness. There’s no word yet regarding whether he will play tonight against the Lakers. It’s more likely, though, that he’ll join the summer league team in Las Vegas along with Wembanyama.
A combo guard in college, Rice would primarily play point guard in the NBA. His outside shooting and his high baseball IQ style are his two biggest strengths as a player.
Betting Guide: Spurs vs. Lakers
The Spurs had a blowout win to begin play in summer league. The Lakers suffered a blowout loss. Tonight, the Spurs are favored by only four points. Considering what happened in each team’s first summer league game, it appears to be obvious that your money should go on the Spurs to win by more than four points.