NBA: San Antonio's Tiago Splitter doubtful for Game 2

San Antonio • Spurs coach Gregg Popovich says reserve center Tiago Splitter (sprained left wrist) is wearing a cast and is doubtful for Game 2 against Utah on Wednesday night.

Popovich plans to again start Boris Diaw at power forward, teaming him in the post with center Tim Duncan.

"We started him and Timmy together down the stretch in the regular season," Popovich said. "We're not going to change it."

Jovial Jackson

One day after scoring 14 points off the bench and serving as the X-factor in Game 1, forward Stephen Jackson was an even bigger hit at practice Monday.

Jackson drew continual laughter from the media during his interview session, discussing everything from his close relationship with Duncan — highlighted by Duncan's appreciation of Jackson's rap skills — to a unique tactic Utah could use to get Tony Parker off the court.

"Maybe kidnap him," Jackson joked.

He added: "I don't think there's any legal way you can stop him. ... Tony's one of those guys who's in the zone right now. He's been in a zone all year. Anytime people been screaming your name, 'MVP,' you must've been doing something right all season."

Lost in transition

Guard Manu Ginobili said San Antonio's primary Game 2 adjustment will be stopping the Jazz's transition offense.

Utah scored 23 fast-break points and stayed in the contest during the first half by consistently going to the free-throw line.

The Jazz were 23 of 30 from the stripe overall, with Gordon Hayward and Alec Burks ­— a combined 16 of 17 — punishing the Spurs in transition.

Flex schedule

The NBA announced the start time and television scenarios for Game 4 between the Spurs and Jazz.

If Game 5 is necessary between Dallas and Oklahoma City, the Jazz will play Game 4 at 7 p.m. Monday in Salt Lake City and the contest will be televised on NBA TV.

If Game 5 isn't necessary between the Mavericks and Thunder, Utah's Game 4 will be moved up to 6 p.m. Monday and will be shown on TNT.