12/14/2024, 2:38 AM
Starting vs. Portland
The Spurs will be without Stephon Castle (shoulder) for this game, so interim head coach Mitch Johnson has tweaked things up. Sochan will slot in at power forward alongside Victor Wembanyama in the frontcourt, while Julian Champagnie and Harrison Barnes will play in the wings. Sochan is averaging 15.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.0 steals per game as a starter this season (eight appearances).
12/13/2024, 12:50 AM
Not playing Friday
Castle banged his shoulder in the second quarter of the 121-116 win over the Pelicans on Dec. 8, a game in which he finished with 22 points, five rebounds and four assists across 34 minutes. Even though the early diagnosis was just a bruise, the rookie will receive some extra rest and will sit out Friday's rematch against Portland. His next chance to play will come against the Timberwolves on Sunday.
12/13/2024, 12:48 AM
Won't go Friday
Johnson departed Sunday's game early after suffering a left calf injury, and it'll hold him out of Friday's action. Zach Collins (back) and Stephon Castle (shoulder) have also been downgraded to out, opening up opportunities for Malaki Branham, Harrison Barnes and Charles Bassey in the frontcourt.