The Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs meet for the third time this season, with the visiting Suns winning the previous two. Can the Spurs finally fire back?

Catch the game this Friday, February 20th, 9:30 AM  Manila time.

AWAY: Phoenix Suns (32-23, 14-13 ROAD)

Projected starting five:

  • Collin Gillespie
  • Devin Booker
  • Dillon Brooks (SUSP) / Jordan Goodwin
  • Royce O’Neale
  • Mark Williams

Phoenix went to the All-Star break with no rhythm, dropping four of its last six games – however, the matchup history offers encouragement. The Suns are 2-0 against San Antonio this season, averaging 120.5 points per contest in those wins. Devin Booker has predictably led the charge, putting up 26 points per game against the Spurs, including a 28-point, 13-assist double-double in their November meeting.

This time, though, the rotation looks thinner. Dillon Brooks is serving a one-game suspension, and Grayson Allen remains sidelined with injury, removing the team’s second and third-leading scorers. That places added responsibility on Booker and the supporting cast. Mark Williams, Royce O’Neal, and Collin Gillespie headline a versatile group that also includes Ryan Dunn, Jordan Goodwin, and Oso Ighodaro – players capable of defending, rebounding, and knocking down timely shots.

Defense remains Phoenix’s backbone. Ranking fifth in points allowed per game, the Suns have consistently given themselves a chance on that end. If they can grind this into a half-court battle, they’ll like their chances – even while shorthanded.

HOME: San Antonio Spurs (38-16,19-6 HOME)

Projected starting five:

  • De’Aaron Fox
  • Stephon Castle
  • Devin Vassell
  • Julian Champagnie
  • Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs enter riding a six-game winning streak, dominating opponents by an average margin of 14.2 points. Confidence is surging, and there’s extra motivation to finally break through against a Suns team that has beaten them twice already.

Victor Wembanyama will be central to that effort, though his lone outing against Phoenix this season was forgettable: just 9 points on 4-of-14 shooting back on November 3rd. Expect a sharper version this time. De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle provide dynamic backcourt support, both capable of pressuring Phoenix’s perimeter defenders and creating downhill opportunities. Devin Vassell, still working back from injury at 10.9 points per game over his last nine contests, is due for a breakout performance.

Rookie playmaker Dylan Harper continues to gain confidence, adding another layer to the offense. Still, San Antonio’s identity is defense. The Spurs rank seventh in points allowed and third in defensive rating, and that discipline could be the difference against a depleted Suns squad.

PICKS

Spread: Spurs (-7.5)

Over/Under: Under (226.5)