The Spurs are expected to exercise extreme caution with the big man, as Quaintance suffered a torn ACL and meniscus with Arizona State in February 2025 before appearing in only four games with Kentucky last season due to severe complications and persistent swelling. The 19-year-old underwent a cleanup procedure on his meniscus in mid-July, and the Spurs will likely want him at 100 percent before ramping him up to basketball activities. What his absence changes
Bryant exited Saturday's preseason loss to Phoenix after rolling his right ankle in the first half and did not return, so the Spurs are giving him a day to recover Monday. His next chance to play comes Wednesday against the Suns.
Fox was listed in the starting lineup for Thursday's game but was a late scratch and will miss a third straight exhibition Monday. The extent of his injury remains unclear, but the Spurs have made no indication that the veteran point guard is in danger of missing Opening Night. For what it's worth, the Spurs are resting most of their regulars, including their expected starting lineup for Monday's game.
The Spurs planned to rest several regulars for Monday's contest before the preseason began, so Castle's absence is not believed to be injury-related. Victor Wembanyama, De'Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper and Devin Vassell are also among the players sitting out. Castle's next opportunity to suit up will come Wednesday against the Suns.
"It's a calf strain, the seriousness is what it is," said Johnson. "We won't rush him at all. I guess the question will be is he ready for the season opener? Totally questionable and we will not push that at all. So, we'll take it slow. There is no concern of this level of seriousness, and at the same time, we will not rush him at all." It sounds like Harris, who has already been ruled out for the preseason, is in danger of missing opening night. His absence will open up minutes for Julian Champagnie, Keldon Johnson and Harrison Barnes.
The Spurs planned to rest several regulars against Utah before the preseason began, so Wembanyama's absence appears to be a routine precaution rather than an injury-related concern. San Antonio will also sit Stephon Castle, De'Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper and Devin Vassell, among others. Wembanyama's next opportunity to play will come Wednesday against the Suns.
