Spurs' injury report for preseason opener gives fans good and bad news

Victor Wembanyama will be on the floor tonight for the preseason opener against the Guangzhou Loong-Lions. But he's only one of two projected starters playing in his highly anticipated return. De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper, Devin Vassell, Jeremy Sochan, and Kelly Olynyk are all sidelined for tonight's game, per several local reporters.

As you can see in the graphic above, nobody on the team is dealing with anything serious, so that's also good news. But fans will have to wait to see what the team will look like with their most talented hoopers playing together. However, this development provides Spurs Nation with an opportunity to see what some of the other guys who may not get as much time during the regular season can do.

The Spurs' depth will get its first test in preseason game one

Adam Flagler likely gets the start at point guard since he's the only available one. Jordan McLaughlin is also out. I can also see Keldon Johnson starting alongside Julian Champagnie, Harrison Barnes, and Victor Wembanyama. With Kelly Olynyk out, it's hard to imagine we'll see the double big lineup tonight, but that could also depend on matchups.

Fans should get a good look at Carter Bryant tonight. This will be a great early opportunity for him to get quality minutes in a real game, albeit an exhibition. It may not count in the standings, but players are trying to win. The experience will be valuable for him.

David Jones-Garcia has a shot for significant time against the Loong-Lions. He had several stand-out performances in Summer League, so fans will be interested to see if his hot shooting can carry over to the real thing. The same intrigue goes for Riley Minix. He's s shooter, and the Spurs need that. This game is a chance for him to show that he can take care of the details, while he also provides what he's known for: shooting.

Preseason games aren't for determining how good or bad a team is going to be when the regular season starts. They're for experimenting, getting down rotations, shaking off the rust, development, and beginning to lay the foundation of your identity.

Don't be surprised if some of the players miss jump shots. That's normal right now. Look to see if they're playing hard and making the right decisions with or without the basketball. Are they rotating on defense? Are they going after the ball aggressively? Are they making the extra pass and taking the open shot? That's what I want to see: smart basketball and effort. (And maybe a Wemby highlight or two)