Predicting rotation Spurs preseason opener vs. Thunder after disappointing news

Basketball is back for the city of San Antonio. The preseason is for shaking off the rust, experimenting with lineups, and seeing who can do what when the games are live. They don't count toward the regular season total, but there's no mistaking what they signify: a return to NBA action.

The Spurs are set to face off against their youthful counterparts in Oklahoma City at 7:00 pm CST on Monday, October 7. It's been nearly six months since the last time they took the court and unfortunately, fans will have to wait a few more days, at least, to see Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama on the court.

Fans already knew Devin Vassell wouldn't be suiting for a bit, so that part isn't a surprise, but other than CP3, seeing the rest of the names on the list is a bit shocking. Paul is approaching 40 years old, so being cautious with him is the smart thing to do and not completely unexpected.

After Saturday's practice, Coach Pop informed the media that everyone besides Vassell was healthy and practicing well. So, at least, injuries don't seem to be a concern. Wembanyama played in the Olympics, so a little extra rest time isn't the worst thing in the world, but now the uncertainty surrounding the rotation has been dialed up. Let's take a look at what it may look like.

Possible Spurs starters

PG: Tre Jones

Jones has plenty of experience running the show for San Antonio. He's the only other pure point guard on the team, so he should be in line to take over the position in Paul's absence. After working with CP3, it will be fascinating to see if there are any subtle improvements to his game because those are the things that impact winning, and you only learn them from experience with veterans.

SG: Malaki Branham

Branham spoke about how hard he's been working in the offseason and Barnes confirmed he's seen the work pay off. Branham is a scorer, and without Vassell and Wemby, San Antonio will need reliable points. Branham is a prime candidate to fill that void.

SF: Harrison Barnes

Barnes has experience playing small forward and power forward, but those roles have somewhat merged over the years. The line between the two positions has blurred, making it easy to move pieces back and forth. He has the size, length and quickness to produce from the wing offensively and defensively. More importantly, he can space the floor with his shooting.

PF: Jeremy Sochan

Sochan is the glue guy. His energy, slashing and defense are imperative to the Spurs. He allows them the ability to switch and he can defend the opposing team's best wing. Dynamic wing players have run the league for a long time, so having a guy who can slow them down is crucial.

C: Sandro Mamukelashvili

Mamu is loved by Spurs fans everywhere, but he shouldn't be a starting center in the NBA. Unfortunately, he's the only one on the roster available. Still, it will be nice to see him back out there. His chemistry with Wemby was a revelation at the end of last season, and hopefully, he's built his skillset.

Sixth Man: Keldon Johnson

KJ is one of the most polarizing players on the team, but that's because fans expect more from him. He's the longest-tenured player on the team, and he's a great locker-room guy. It would be great to see him have a breakout year, and it seems he's aiming for that as well. Johnson is in the best shape of his life, and Coach Pop raved about how great he looks and how hard he's been working.

Rest of rotation

There's a ton of intrigue surrounding Stephon Castle and with good reason. He's received rave reviews in training camp, and Paul being out will likely give him a chance to play point guard. Pop has confirmed his ability to play positions 1-3, so don't be surprised wherever you see him.

Blake Wesley has a chance to get off on a good foot this year. He, as well as Branham, is in a contract year, and the Spurs have yet to pick up their options. The due date on that is October 31, so they'll no doubt get plenty of chances to make their case to the organization with their play. Wesley has made his bearings on defense; now he needs to add some shooting.

Julian Champagnie was a starter last season, so it's hard to envision he wouldn't have a spot in the rotation. He shot the ball well and defended at a respectable level. Fans should expect more of the same.

Sidy Cissoko receives an honorable mention here. Pop has spoken about how much he loves his game, but there's a lot for him to clean up, so don't be surprised by a Cissoko sighting.