With the Spurs clinging to a 113-111 lead with 1:30 remaining, Johnson won a battle for the rebound of Castle's missed 3-pointer. Johnson passed it to Vassell, who drained a 3 from 26 feet to extend San Antonio's lead to 116-111 with 1:03 remaining.

C.J. McCollum had 26 points, nine assists and seven rebounds for the Pelicans, who were without Zion Williamson. The team said the star power forward sat out because of personal reasons. McCollum shot 5 for 12 on 3-pointers,

The San Antonio Spurs are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, where they allowed 81 points in the first half. The Spurs won't have time to rest, as they will host the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday.

SA's weakened front court faces a tough matchup in Zion Williamson who proved a difference maker in earlier games.

Analyzing Monday’s San Antonio Spurs at Los Angeles Lakers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.