The latest on Gregg Popovich's expected absence after reported medical issues

Coach Gregg Popovich missed the game on November 2 when the Spurs faced the Minnesota Timberwolves. Assistant Coach Mitch Johnson stepped in and did a fantastic job of leading the team to a victory against a difficult opponent. When the announcement was made that Pop wouldn't be on the sidelines, it was nothing to be concerned about, but now that might not be the case.

Coach Pop is out for a couple more games

San Antonio announced Coach Pop is not traveling with the team to LA and Houston, extending his absence to a minimum of three games. While the occasional absence has occurred, he's never been out for any stretch of games like this, and since he is a 75-year-old man, eyebrows were raised when the report came out.

However, Coach Pop has missed games before. One of those times, Spurs fans watched Tim Duncan coach the game and lead the team to a win over the Brooklyn Nets. "Personal business" was the reason given for Popovich's absence at that time, and nobody batted an eye.

The fact of the matter is that he is an older gentleman, so sometimes you need a little extra time to feel like yourself when you come down with something. It's understandable to be worried, but according to long-time journalist Tom Orsborn, Coach Pop is just fine.

There's precedent for older coaches

Lenny Wilkins was 80 years old when he retired from coaching in 2015, and Jim Boeheim was 78. There aren't too many who last as long as these guys, but if anyone can do it, it's Coach Popovich. He's always been a very strong-willed man who looks like he takes very good care of himself.

Granted, 75 years old is 75 years old, so any inkling of health problems can be scary, but for now, it looks like there's no need to worry about the leader of the franchise.

San Antonio played a very well-executed game vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves under the guidance of Mitch Johnson, and fans should expect that to continue when they see the LA Clippers tonight and the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, November 6, after election day.