Spurs, Raptors Prepare for Final Game of Tough NBA Season

San Antonio, TX – The San Antonio Spurs will host the Toronto Raptors in their final NBA game of the season on April 13, 2025, at the Frost Bank Center. Both teams have been eliminated from playoff contention, and they will rest key players as they conclude a challenging season.

At 33-48, the Spurs have secured the eighth-best odds for the number-one overall pick in the NBA draft. Meanwhile, the Raptors boast the seventh-best odds but sit just ahead in the lottery standings. Without anything significant on the line, both teams will emphasize player development over competition.

This matchup features notable absences on both rosters. The Spurs confirmed that top players Victor Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, and Devin Vassell will not participate due to injuries. Wembanyama is out with shoulder issues, while Fox is recovering from finger surgery. The Raptors will also miss several key players, including Brandon Ingram and RJ Barrett, with Ingram sidelined due to an ankle sprain and Barrett resting.

Despite the absent star power, this final matchup will provide young players a chance to make an impression. Spurs’ General Manager Brian Wright indicated enthusiasm about rookie Stephon Castle, who has emerged as a mainstay in the lineup and is a front-runner for the Rookie of the Year award. Castle has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise tumultuous season for San Antonio.

“We want to finish the season on a high note at home. It’s a chance for our young guys to prove themselves,” said Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich. “Winning feels great, but this game is more about development.”

The Spurs and Raptors previously met in March, where the Spurs triumphed significantly with a 123-89 victory. San Antonio led from the first quarter, with Devin Vassell scoring 25 points and contributing a game-high plus/minus of 37. The outcome showcased the Spurs’ potential, despite their struggles throughout the season.

As the game approaches, both teams appear to be adopting a strategic approach to the matchup. The Spurs are expected to give more minutes to players like Malaki Branham and David Duke Jr., who aim to position themselves for potential roles next season. Similarly, the Raptors are set to utilize their fringe rotation players, including Scottie Barnes, who is expected to lead the team’s efforts despite the limited expectations.

With both teams focused on building toward the future, this game provides an opportunity to reflect not only on the highs and lows of the past season but to start looking ahead to next year. “This is a good chance to set a foundation for what’s to come,” stated Raptors coach Nick Nurse.

The action is slated to begin at 3:30 p.m. ET at the Frost Bank Center, and it promises to be a compelling conclusion to a difficult season for both franchises.