Vassell ruled out for Spurs’ game against Suns

Vassell was ruled out after the Spurs’ Monday shootaround, having appeared on the injury report the night before with left adductor tightness. San Antonio is playing the fourth game of a road trip and takes an eight-game winning streak into the matchup with Phoenix.

The guard has averaged 11.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 10 games this season, shooting 40.6% from the field and 35.6% from three-point range. He had 19 points in November 6’s 124-109 NBA Cup win over Sacramento, then scored 15 in November 7’s 125-103 victory over Portland. Across those two games, he averaged 17 points and made seven of 10 three-point attempts.

Forward Julian Champagnie could move into the starting lineup in Vassell’s absence. Champagnie scored 14 points against Portland, making four three-pointers. Coach Mitch Johnson has said the team’s depth and range of lineup combinations will be important over the season.

The Spurs’ next game after Phoenix is against the Chicago Bulls on November 11, followed by a home contest in the NBA Cup with the Golden State Warriors on November 13. Vassell’s status for those games has not been specified. Monday’s game at Mortgage Matchup Center is scheduled for 8 p.m. Central and is set to air on DAZN and NBA League Pass.