Spurs' Starting Five Still Unsettled as Preseason Begins

San Antonio's preseason opener may provide clues about its starting lineup, but two spots alongside Victor Wembanyama, De'Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle remain undecided. Coach Mitch Johnson has not committed to starting three guards, leaving Dylan Harper's role uncertain. Tobias Harris is out for the preseason with a strained left calf, which could affect Julian Champagnie's minutes.

San Antonio enters Thursday’s exhibition with three starters seemingly set: Victor Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. The remaining two slots are unresolved, and Mitch Johnson has not said whether he will use three guards, leaving Dylan Harper’s role unclear. Keldon Johnson, last season’s Sixth Man of the Year, said the group prioritizes winning over starting.

Tobias Harris will miss the preseason because of a strained left calf and is questionable for the opener, which may alter Julian Champagnie’s minutes. Champagnie started 68 of 82 games last season and signed a three-year, $45MM extension, but said he will accept whatever role Johnson assigns. Wembanyama also hosted teammates in France, a step in his leadership growth.

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