Spurs coach Mitch Johnson confirmed Tuesday's season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder will feature a three-guard starting lineup of De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper, alongside Devin Vassell and Victor Wembanyama. San Antonio first used this lineup in a preseason win over the Phoenix Suns, posting a plus-10 point differential in the trio's 11 minutes. Despite early shooting struggles (1-of-10 overall, 2-of-9 from three), the Spurs won the rebounding battle 13-11.
Wembanyama emphasized having "handlers all around me" and praised the group's ball-handling and pick-and-roll capabilities. The trio combined for 19 points in the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings, helping San Antonio build a 42-18 lead. While the three guards combined for just 47 points in 69 minutes last season (opponents outscored them by 47), Johnson believes starting with the team's five best players gives them the best chance to succeed.
Fox noted that when the guards are making shots, they can "spread the defense out" and create easy opportunities for everyone.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing