SAN ANTONIO – Must-win games are often overrated, but in a seven-game series, every victory is crucial.
Especially at this stage, in a race to four wins for all the marbles, the margin for error is very slim.
Which begs the question: After losing Game 1 last Wednesday, 105-95, are the Spurs in a must-win situation for Game 2 on Friday at the Frost Bank Center?
Not exactly.
A loss won’t eliminate them, but being down 0-2 puts the Western Conference champions in a precarious situation where they will need to win four of the next five games.
Which is tough to do against a gritty Knicks team that has won 12 games in a row and hasn’t lost since April 23 against the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of these 2026 NBA playoffs.
Victor Wembanyama had 26 points in Game 1, but he had an inefficient 6-of-21 shooting from the field, including 2-for-9 from 3.
THAT NEEDS TO CHANGE.
To avoid a disastrous 0-2 hole, the Spurs also need to move the ball better, dominate the glass, and limit turnovers.
Easier said than done, but doable.
As for the Knicks, Jalen Brunson, who had 30 markers on Wednesday, needs to carry the torch in order fir New York to take a commanding series lead.
Karl Anthony-Towns was spectacular with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Even more impressive was his D on Wemby.
A similarly dominant performance will be required.
Game 2 should be another squeaker.
Who you got?
