As the Oklahoma City Thunder travel to Texas for a showdown with the San Antonio Spurs, both teams face a challenging moment in their seasons. Injuries have reshaped their rosters, leaving them to rely on depth and determination. For fans, this matchup isn’t just another game—it’s a peek into how teams adapt when adversity strikes. With the Thunder looking to maintain their strong start and the Spurs hoping to rebound from back-to-back defeats, Tuesday night promises plenty of drama on the court.  

Injury Report & Depth Charts

Injury Report

Isaiah Joe has been ruled out for Tuesday’s game against the Spurs due to a left calf contusion. Chet Holmgren suffered a right iliac hip fracture during Sunday’s loss to the Warriors and a return to play protocol will be provided in 8-to-10 weeks. Jaylin Williams, out on hamstring injury will be re-evaluated in 4-6 weeks. Isaiah Hartenstein suffered a non-displaced fracture in his left hand and will be re-evaluated in 5-6 weeks. Nikola Topic underwent a successful left ACL procedure Wednesday and will miss the 2024-25 season.

Victor Wembanyama has been downgraded to doubtful for Tuesday’s game due to a right knee contusion. Jeremy Sochan suffered a fracture in the proximal phalanx of his left thumb during Monday’s game against the Clippers and is scheduled to undergo surgery this week and the team will provide updates as appropriate.

San Antonio Spur Depth Chart

Oklahoma City Thunder Depth Chart

Wembanyama’s Absence Tests Spurs, Shai Leads the Charge for OKC

The Thunder have navigated injuries with a mix of strong performances and strategic adjustments. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is averaging 28.5 points per game this season, continues to shine as the team’s offensive anchor. His 36-point outing against Dallas underscored his ability to carry the scoring load, even as the team struggles with a depleted roster.

But it’s not just the offense that sets OKC apart, their defense is ranked as top in the league (102.4). Averaging 12.3 steals per game and committing the fewest turnovers in the NBA (9.3), the Thunder thrives on the small-ball approach that prioritizes steals and minimizing turnovers. They may struggle on the boards—averaging just 35.5 rebounds over the past four games—but their ability to force mistakes keeps them in games and Alex Caruso’s return from injury will add a defensive boost.

For the Spurs, this game is as much about survival as it is about strategy. With Victor Wembanyama listed as doubtful due to a knee injury, San Antonio faces the challenge of playing without their young superstar, who has been averaging 22.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.7 blocks per game. His absence not only limits their scoring but also leaves a defensive void. 

Devin Vassell has been gradually finding his rhythm after recovering from injury. Vassell’s recent performances—16.3 points per game over his last four outings—show he’s ready to shoulder more responsibility.  

With the Thunder holding the upper hand in both recent form and roster depth, can the Spurs rise to the occasion despite their injury setbacks? Or will OKC’s defensive tenacity and offensive firepower prove too much for a shorthanded San Antonio squad? As the Emirates NBA Cup heats up, Tuesday’s showdown is a reminder that even amid adversity, teams can deliver unforgettable moments.