De’Aaron Fox will finally make his long-awaited season debut on Saturday as the San Antonio Spurs host the depleted New Orleans Pelicans. The Spurs are on the second night of a back-to-back, while the Pelicans last played on Wednesday. Despite their injury issues, New Orleans remains a dangerous opponent, as short-handed teams often surprise their rivals.
Given San Antonio’s uneven start to the season, another poor performance could harm their credibility. This matchup, though low stakes, still holds importance for establishing consistency.
It wouldn’t fit San Antonio’s usual style to overload Fox with touches, yet he will see plenty of action as part of the flow. Expect him to find open shots along the baseline or in the slot following drives by Stephon Castle. With Victor Wembanyama averaging only one screen assist per game, the Spurs are likely to boost their pick-and-roll and handoff actions to create cleaner half-court looks for Fox.
When Fox and Wembanyama engage in two-man plays, Harrison Barnes should benefit with open corner opportunities.
“It will be the second night of a back-to-back for the Spurs, while their guests last played on Wednesday.”
San Antonio needs sharp execution to build momentum and avoid a morale setback against a short-handed but unpredictable opponent.
Author’s Summary: The Spurs face a tricky game against an injury-weakened Pelicans squad as De’Aaron Fox returns, aiming to spark chemistry with Wembanyama in their evolving offense.