Thursday’s preseason opener will provide some clues about Spurs“starting lineup, but it’s a situation that could remain unresolved through the first game of the regular season and beyond, Jeff McDonald of The San Antonio Express-News writes in history only for subscribers. Victor Wembanyama will enter the starting five, of course, together with De’Aaron Fox and Castle Stefanbut the other two locations are unspecified.
“We just want to win” said Keldon Johnsonformer starter who won Sixth Man of the Year last season. “We’re a pretty tight group. And whether we’re starting or coming off the bench, our main goal is to win as many games as possible.”
Another important component in the lineup decision is the 20-year-old guard Dylan Harperwho looked like a future star during San Antonio’s run to the NBA Finals. He may be ready for an expanded role, but MacDonald notes that the coach Mitch Johnson was noncommittal about whether he’s comfortable with his starting three guards.
“We just have to get more hours of on-the-job training and continue to see and experience what works and complements each other.” Coach Johnson said. “But they’re pretty talented and nice guys, so I’m not worried.”
There are more from San Antonio:
- Julian Champagne started 68 of the 82 games he played last season, but the signing Tobias Harris could change his role, notes Tom Orsborn of The Express-News (subscription required). Harris is out for the preseason with a tight left calfso it may take some time to determine how it fits. Champagne, which received a three-year, $45 million this summer, indicated he wouldn’t mind if Johnson decided to use him off the bench. “I’ll do what he needs me to do” Champagne said. “Whatever the team needs from me, I’ll be there.”
- Spurs plan to be cautious with Harris, who is listed as questionable for the season opener, Orsborn adds. The 34-year-old forward was injured at the beginning of the training camp. “That’s the game. That’s the way it goes.” Champagne said. “Obviously, we need him healthy. He’s a big part of our new team. A new part, a big part. So we’re just going to have to adjust to him not being here and then adjust to having him back. But throughout the year, I’m sure there’s going to be more days like that. We’re just going to have to figure it out.”
- Wembanyama’s decision to take several of his team-mates to France this summer was part of his growth as a leader, says Macdonald in a separate story. The trip was a combination of off-season work and a sight-seeing tour of Paris led by Wembanyama.“He’s everything you want in a leader and teammate.” Castle said. “He works hard. He’s not lazy. He cares about his teammates, obviously cares about the guys, and he’s a crazy good talent. It just speaks to his character.”