Ranking 5 burning questions by how quickly Spurs fans want them answered

4. Can Keldon Johnson thrive as a sixth man?

Keldon Johnson's name was involved in an absurd number of trade rumors this summer. Just about every idea that was presented involved KJ as the asset the Spurs should move. But it wasn't just the media who were responsible for generating these ideas. Alamo City fans were throwing out trade proposals left and right with Johnson's name involved.

It's hard to imagine he didn't see some of that, and it didn't motivate him. He came into training camp in the best shape he's been in since he entered the league and has spoken about his elevated focus in several interviews.

He came off the bench for most of last season, and that will likely be the case again. He looked more explosive and decisive on offense and more disciplined on defense during preseason action. If he can keep that up, he'll prove his doubters wrong and potentially turn his long-term tenure into a career-long relationship.

3. Will Zach Collins step up and earn his contract?

The only other player on the roster whose ears burned in the offseason more than Keldon Johnson was Zach Collins. But the discourse surrounding Collins is different because of what the expectations were when he signed his extension versus what the production was, and what happened based on the disappointing start to last season.

The Spurs planned to implement a new age ‘Twin Towers’ era, with Victor Wembanyama and Collins starting next to each other. But that went horribly for several reasons, and the former Gonzaga standout was sent to the bench. He makes a little too much money for the role of backup center... ordinarily.

Due to the sensitive way the organization is treating Wemby, as they care for his unique body type, a backup center on the Spurs is more valuable than a backup center on the Denver Nuggets. However, Collins needs to play up to expectations to ensure he staves off the vitriol from Spurs fans.