San Antonio Spurs basketball is again… sort of. The Spurs will play their first preseason contest in opposition to the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder. It is going to be the primary probability now we have to see this new-look Spurs squad. The additions of Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes have added some loftier expectations for the Silver and Black. They’ll get to see the way it seems in opposition to NBA competitors on Monday.
A budding rivalry began between the Thunder and Spurs final season. A pair of rookie unicorns made the video games between these two extra heated. Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren shall be in contrast to one another for many of their careers. Wembanyama edged out Holmgren in 12 months one, however Holmgren performs on a roster with reasonable Finals expectations. Holmgren will doubtless play restricted minutes, whereas Wembanyama will sit out the primary preseason matchup.
Each groups will relaxation a number of rotation gamers, letting youthful gamers show they deserve a spot on the roster.
San Antonio Spurs (0-0) vs. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (0-0)
October 7, 2024 | 7 PM CT
Watch: CW35/NBA TV | Hear: WOAI (1200 AM)
Spurs Accidents: Devin Vassell – Out (foot), Charles Bassey – Out (knee), Zach Collins – Out (undisclosed), Chris Paul – (undisclosed), Victor Wembanyama – Out (undisclosed), David Duke Jr. – Out (undisclosed)
Thunder Accidents: Kenrich Williams – Questionable (knee), Luguentz Dort – (relaxation), Shai-Gilgeous-Alexander – Out (relaxation), Jaylin Williams – Questionable (hamstring), Nikola Matter – Out (knee), Alex Ducas – Questionable (hip)
What to observe for
Who begins?
Beginning within the preseason doesn’t essentially point out who shall be within the first 5 come opening night time, however it’ll give a glimpse into Gregg Popovich’s thought course of. With Devin Vassell anticipated to overlook at the very least the primary 5 video games of the season, there’s a clear gap within the Spurs beginning lineup. Discovering out who steps in shall be robust with different starters like Wemby and Paul sitting. If Malaki Branham, Stephon Fort or Julian Champagnie get some run with the starters, it could possibly be an indication that one or two of the gamers are in line to interchange Vassell whereas he’s out.
Can the perimeter rotation gamers earn their preserve?
Preseason ball means we received’t see a lot from the Spurs rotation mainstays. As a substitute, we’ll get to see some gamers attempting to earn a spot within the rotation or on the roster get loads of taking part in time. Meaning guys like Blake Wesley, Sidy Cissoko and Harrison Ingram will get loads of minutes. Gamers on coaching camp contracts, like Brandon Boston Jr., Malachi Flynn and Riley Minix, ought to get a shot to construct upon what they’ve proven in follow.
Keldon Johnson’s new look
One of many greatest tales of the Spurs coaching camp has been Keldon Johnson’s physique transformation. He lower out the Bucc-ee’s journeys and bought in nice form this summer season. It is going to be attention-grabbing to see how his physique adjustments impression his recreation. Will he be the identical downhill attacking power he was beforehand? How will his protection enhance? If KJ is locked in and faster on the defensive finish, that will be a game-changer for the sixth-year wing.
