The San Antonio Spurs are navigating the final stretch of the season with a strategic mindset, especially after clinching a playoff spot. Despite missing Stephon Castle in their recent victory, head coach Mitch Johnson shed light on their approach to managing player health as they eye a potential top seed.
With 12 games left, the Spurs are just three games behind the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. While it would take a dramatic turn for San Antonio to lose home-court advantage in the first two rounds, they’re still in the hunt for the top spot. Oklahoma City faces a tough schedule with nine games against playoff contenders, giving the Spurs a fighting chance.
However, durability is a concern for San Antonio. Victor Wembanyama is dealing with lingering issues, and Castle was a last-minute scratch in the last game. Johnson emphasized their cautious approach as they close out the season.
As the Spurs prepare to face the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, Castle's status remains uncertain. Johnson acknowledged, "He's banged up again.
He does more than anybody else in the league, so he is rightfully beat up after this long of a season. But we will be mindful, obviously, 70 games in, of making sure we don't overextend anybody."
This cautious approach extends beyond Castle. Johnson is prepared to be conservative, ensuring the team remains sharp and fit.
"We have numerous guys that are banged up, and we're just trying to be mindful of that while also still being sharp and getting our fitness ready," he explained. "The North Star is just getting better.
Sometimes getting better means taking a day off to let your mind and body rest, so you can be ready to go the next day."
The Spurs are balancing the push for a top seed with the health of their roster, aiming to peak when it matters most in the playoffs.