The San Antonio Spurs entered the preseason with questions about how their talented young backcourt would fit together. Following Wednesday night's performance against the Phoenix Suns, they may be getting closer to finding an answer. San Antonio defeated Phoenix 123-103 at Frost Bank Center, giving fans their first look at a starting lineup featuring De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper alongside Devin Vassell and Victor Wembanyama.
The decision to start three guards had been discussed since the Spurs drafted Harper #2 overall in last year’s draft, but injuries and lineup changes prevented head coach Mitch Johnson from getting an extended look at the combination. With Fox returning from a hip injury, Johnson finally had an opportunity to see how the group would perform together. The results were encouraging, although the experiment didn't begin smoothly.
San Antonio scored just three points during the opening five minutes, shooting 1-of-10 from the field as the new starting unit struggled to establish an offensive rhythm. However, it didn’t take long for the Spurs to find their flow. San Antonio scored 38 points in the second quarter and taking a 60-49 lead into halftime.
Fox, Castle and Harper combined for 31 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in the opening half, demonstrating the offensive potential of a lineup featuring multiple playmakers. Following the victory, Wembanyama explained why having three capable ballhandlers alongside him could make the Spurs more dangerous offensively. "The biggest thing is I've got handlers all around me," Wembanyama said.
"That makes things easier." His comments highlight one of the biggest advantages of San Antonio's new approach. With Fox, Castle and Harper sharing the floor, opposing defenses must account for several players capable of creating their own shots, attacking the basket and setting up teammates. That could be particularly valuable for Wembanyama, who has often been the focal point of opposing defensive game plans.
Instead of relying on one primary ballhandler to initiate the offense, San Antonio can attack from multiple positions and create opportunities for its 7-foot-4 superstar. Fox provides veteran experience and proven scoring ability, while Castle brings size, defensive versatility and an improving offensive game. Harper, meanwhile, gives the Spurs another young playmaker capable of attacking the paint and creating opportunities for others.
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