San Antonio Spurs Injury Report: Will Victor Wembanyama play tonight against Pacers?

San Antonio Spurs head into their January 2 matchup against the Indiana Pacers with clarity on one major question: Victor Wembanyama will not be available.

As the Spurs prepare for the first of two regular-season meetings with Indiana, their injury report shapes both expectations and rotations for Friday night’s contest.

The Spurs, who have been one of the more consistent teams this season, enter the game without two key contributors.

Despite their strong overall form, the absence of star talent always alters game planning, especially against a Pacers side eager to capitalize on any advantage.

Will Victor Wembanyama play vs. Pacers?

Victor Wembanyama has officially been ruled out due to a knee injury. The decision keeps the Spurs’ franchise cornerstone sidelined as the team prioritizes long-term health over short-term gains.

Wembanyama’s absence is significant on both ends of the floor, given his impact as a rim protector, rebounder, and primary scoring option in the paint.

Without him, San Antonio will need to adjust its interior defense and offensive spacing. The Spurs are expected to rely more on ball movement and perimeter execution, rather than the inside-out approach that often features Wembanyama as a focal point.

Additional Spurs injury updates

The injury concerns don’t stop with Wembanyama. Devin Vassell is also listed as out, dealing with an adductor issue. Vassell’s absence removes a reliable scoring option and perimeter defender from the rotation, further testing the Spurs’ depth against an Indiana team looking to stay competitive despite its own injury challenges.

With both Wembanyama and Vassell unavailable, San Antonio’s coaching staff will likely emphasize collective execution, increased defensive discipline, and efficient shot selection to maintain control of the game.

Projected starters for San Antonio Spurs

Based on the available lineup information, the Spurs are expected to start with the following unit:

Andrew Nembhard

Bennedict Mathurin

Jay Huff

Johnny Furphy

Pascal Siakam

Game details and broadcast information

The Spurs and Pacers face off on Friday, January 2, with tip-off set for 8:00 p.m. EST at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.

Fans can catch the action live on FanDuel Sports Network Sun (South Florida) and FanDuel Sports Network Indiana.

As San Antonio navigates this matchup without two of its most impactful players, execution and depth will define the night.

While Wembanyama’s absence answers the biggest pregame question, it also opens the door for role players to step up as the Spurs look to maintain momentum against Indiana.