San Antonio Spurs test guard rotation in preseason debut

The San Antonio Spurs are navigating rotation challenges following the preseason debut of their guard trio: De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper. During a preseason game against the Phoenix Suns, the highly anticipated starting lineup struggled significantly in the opening minutes, scoring only three total points in the first five minutes of play.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson addressed the lineup's chemistry, noting that while the players are among the team's best, the offense initially stalled. Johnson emphasized the need for better starts and more disciplined possessions. To manage the rotation, Johnson frequently cycled the guards, often playing only one of the three at a time during the first quarter to stabilize play.

Internal dynamics also remain a point of interest. Dylan Harper, previously seen as a player willing to accept a bench role, recently expressed greater personal ambition in interviews, though he later clarified during Media Day that he would prioritize collective team needs.