Joe Mazzulla's theme for camp is offensive versatility: more ball handlers, a less predictable attack, lighter loads for any 1 guy. That goes all the way down the roster. Neemias Queta has been told he can shoot 3s. A preseason opener is where you find out whether that's a real plan or just a camp talking point.
Cleveland's preseason runs through Kenny Atkinson's rotation. Atkinson has said flatly that the starting lineup is not set, said there are new pieces to evaluate, and said he could make a case for playing 13 guys. Expect Thursday to look like an open audition, with minutes spread out and a lot of names in the box score.
The new piece getting the most attention is Peyton Watson. Atkinson has called him super active on both ends, praised his fit and said there's a lot of room for growth in his offensive game. Watson is listed day-to-day with a hamstring issue, and in an October exhibition that usually means Cleveland plays it safe. Whether he plays at all is worth checking before tip.
Both teams also travel to get here. Cleveland held camp in Spain, with practices starting September 30 and a scrimmage in Malaga on October 4. Boston practiced at The Citadel in Charleston through Tuesday and flies to Cleveland on Wednesday. Expect rust from both sides. What's worth watching is how much Mazzulla plays Tatum and George together, and whether Atkinson's 13-man audition produces anything clear.