“We definitely need to get a win. You don’t want to get used to this losing stuff,” said Chris Paul after the recent defeat to the Chicago Bulls. Initially, it seemed like the San Antonio Spurs were finding their footing, but once again, the team is caught in a losing streak. This downturn has been particularly evident in the absence of Victor Wembanyama, who missed two games due to injury. His absence has been felt acutely, with the Spurs dropping both games—losing by double-digit margins, including a 27-point blowout to the Sacramento Kings (140-113).

The Spurs are now set to face the New Orleans Pelicans, a team against whom they hold a 2-8 win-loss record. With the Pelicans looming as a tough opponent, the presence of the French sensation would be crucial. Fortunately, there may be some good news on the horizon. According to the San Antonio Spurs’ injury report, Wembanyama’s status is currently listed as ‘Questionable.’ While this typically indicates a 50-50 chance of playing, reports from Air Alamo suggest that this designation is more of a formality. The outlet anticipates that Wembanyama will indeed take the court for the first time this season against the Pelicans. The only other notable absence will be Tre Jones, leaving the Spurs with a potentially full-strength roster.

Earlier in the season, Wembanyama had to miss three games due to a bruised right knee, and just after his return, he was sidelined by bilateral lower back soreness. His absence from the Chicago Bulls and Sacramento Kings matchups contributed to the Spurs’ struggles, with both games ending in heavy defeats. The Spurs’ record now stands at 11-12, putting them in a precarious position. With Wembanyama likely returning, fans and the team are hopeful for a bounce-back performance against the Pelicans.

Speaking of the Pelicans, their Injury Report could provide a much-needed edge for Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs. The New Orleans team currently has six players listed, with five of them— including Zion Williamson— remaining in the ‘OUT’ category. Williamson, who is still recovering from a hamstring injury, isn’t expected to return anytime soon. According to Shams Charania, Zion’s recovery is taking longer than initially anticipated. “I am told [Zion] Williamson is not remotely close to coming back… Typically, it’s a 4-6 week injury, but the Pelicans are bracing for him to be out beyond that point. I am told he has received multiple injections in that hamstring.”

In addition to Williamson, Brandon Ingram is also on the injury report, listed as ‘Day-To-Day’ after sustaining an ankle injury just hours ago. While his return isn’t yet confirmed, his status remains uncertain for the upcoming matchup.

With Wembanyama’s potential return, combined with the Pelicans’ injury woes, the Spurs might have a chance to capitalize on the weakened roster. Both teams will have to make adjustments, and how each squad handles these absences could be pivotal in the outcome of their upcoming clash.

How will the starting lineup and depth chart for the Spurs-Pelicans look like?

In the off-chance that Victor Wembanyama will not be there to take on the New Orleans Pelicans, then either Jeremy Sochan or Zach Collins can see a more than-usual increase in their playtime. Therefore, the starting lineup for the San Antonio Spurs is expected to look something like this:

Additionally, given the presence of so many players on their report, the starting lineup for the New Orleans Pelicans will be different too. It is expected to look something like this:

The San Antonio Spurs or the New Orleans Pelicans? Who will you be rooting for during the upcoming matchup? Let us know in the comments down below.