Shelvin Mack: Checks in ahead of Exum in opener

Mack entered the game before fellow reserve point guard Dante Exum and ended up nearly doubling up his minutes total, suggesting the sixth-year veteran has the edge for top backup duties behind starter George Hill. Exum’s 6-foot-6 frame will allow him to see some additional time off the ball, but as things stand now, Mack figures to occupy a larger role in coach Quin Snyder’s rotation. Look for the talented Exum to gradually cut into Mack and Hill’s workload as the season progresses.