The San Antonio Spurs are bracing for a challenging stretch as both Charles Bassey and Victor Wembanyama are sidelined, intensifying the team's need for a reliable center. With Wembanyama out for the season due to a serious health issue, the Spurs' acting coach Mitch Johnson has decided to start veteran Bismack Biyombo in their upcoming game against the Phoenix Suns. Biyombo, who recently joined the team on a 10-day contract, is expected to step up significantly in this critical role. The Spurs aim to maintain their competitive edge while eagerly awaiting the return of their young star, Wembanyama.

The Chicago Bulls kick off their post-All-Star break stretch with a matchup against the New York Knicks, highlighting the stark contrast in their standings. The Knicks, aiming for a playoff push, face a Bulls team in decline after trading Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings. In the process, they've introduced new rotation players while maintaining a core led by Nikola Vucevic and Coby White. However, bad news struck as center Jalen Smith suffered a facial injury early in the game, limiting his contributions after a solid season of 8.6 points and 5.5 rebounds over 50 games. With Smith sidelined, the Bulls will rely on Zach Collins to step up and fill the gap.

De'Aaron Fox has officially begun a new chapter with the San Antonio Spurs following a multi-team trade that brought him from the Sacramento Kings. In a deal also involving Zach LaVine and multiple players, Fox's arrival marks a significant move for the Spurs as they seek to reshape their roster. Initially choosing No. 2, Fox later opted for No. 4, honoring his wife, Recee, who wore that number in high school and at Texas Tech. His debut with the team is anticipated soon, as he completed his physical, with Coach Mitch Johnson expressing enthusiasm about integrating Fox into their system.

This trade not only highlights the Spurs’ efforts to attract star talent but also symbolizes a shift in their legacy, reminiscent of past superstars like Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge. Fox's decision to join the Spurs indicates a commitment to building something lasting in San Antonio, as the team aims to move forward in the competitive landscape of the NBA.

The Chicago Bulls are undergoing significant roster changes after trading Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings. In return, they acquired Kevin Huerter, Tre Jones, and Zach Collins, which necessitated the waiving of Torrey Craig and Chris Duarte to clear roster space. With a logjam at guard and small forward positions, the Bulls seem to be shifting towards a tanking strategy, aiming to shed major salary contracts without taking on new ones. Nikola Vucevic remains on the roster but could be next to go, as he seeks a team poised for a championship run. Reports suggest the Bulls are still exploring further trades involving Huerter and Jones.

Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox are set to make their debut together tonight as the San Antonio Spurs face the Memphis Grizzlies. Notably, Zach Collins will be absent from the lineup, impacting Spurs' strategies. The game, scheduled at FedEx Forum, sees the Spurs fighting for a play-in spot, currently sitting just two games outside. Memphis, fresh off a win over the Bucks, looks strong with Jaren Jackson Jr. leading after a 37-point performance. The Grizzlies’ home court advantage and solid recent form make them the favorites for this matchup.

San Antonio's road struggles (7-12) contrast sharply with Memphis’s impressive 20-5 home record. The line has shifted from Grizzlies -6 to -5, indicating a slight confidence in the Spurs’ chances. Additionally, the latest odds suggest a competitive high-scoring affair with an over/under set at 242. Analysts recommend betting on the Grizzlies’ moneyline while considering the Spurs to cover the spread.