Wembanyama favored for MVP title, Spurs field three playmakers

San Antonio, for its part, has made a decision for the opener: Mitch Johnson announced that De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper would play together.

What the starting projection says

According to Sport News Africa, which presented a projection as of October 18, the chosen starting five includes Fox, Castle, Harper, Vassell, and Wembanyama. The outlet specifies that this is not an official lineup and that player availability will need to be reconfirmed before the game. This configuration dismisses the earlier idea of Harper consistently coming off the bench.

Wembanyama would be the only big man in this lineup. The outlet concludes that the perimeter players will need to help with rebounding and protect the rim.

Where the team is starting from

The Spurs finished the regular season with 62 wins and 20 losses, then lost the NBA Finals to New York. Sport News Africa believes this run raises the bar: the team must prove it can respond to the adjustments prepared by its opponents.

Roster moves

Tobias Harris and rookies Jayden Quaintance, Tarris Reed Jr., Maliq Brown, and Ja'Kobi Gillespie have joined the group. Billy Donovan has arrived as the lead assistant coach alongside Mitch Johnson. Bismack Biyombo, Kelly Olynyk, Mason Plumlee, and Lindy Waters III are no longer on the roster.

Harris missed the preseason due to a calf issue, and his presence at the opener remains to be confirmed. Quaintance is listed as unavailable.

Backup options

Keldon Johnson, Julian Champagnie, Harrison Barnes, and Luke Kornet are among the possible backups. Kornet or Reed could allow for a bigger lineup. Sport News Africa emphasizes that a spot on the roster does not guarantee playing time, as rotation choices depend on the opponent and available players.