De’Aaron Fox Swiftly Reminded Critics Who He Is

Now in San Antonio, his role has shifted.

With Wembanyama as the focal point, Fox is no longer the primary option every night. Instead, he operates as a secondary scorer and playmaker, averaging 18.6 points and 6.2 assists this season while shooting 48.6 percent from the field, in a role that requires a different kind of impact.

The Game 2 Reaction

Then came the criticism following Game 2 when Wembanyama got hurt. Expectations shifted towards Fox to carry a heavier offensive load. When the Spurs fell short, the reaction was immediate, and the conversation quickly moved from performance to contract value.

The Response

Fox answered in the way top players often do, by performing when it mattered most.

In Game 4, he delivered what Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson described as “might’ve been his best game as a Spur,” finishing with 28 points on 11-of-17 shooting while adding seven assists and controlling the pace throughout.

He followed that performance with an even more decisive showing in Game 5.

Fox scored 13 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter, taking over late and leading San Antonio to a 114-95 win to close out the series. He also added nine assists, finishing as a +26 in the game.

Across Games 4 and 5, Fox combined for 49 points and 16 assists while shooting over 60 percent from the field and 45 percent from three when it mattered most.

A Different Kind of Value

The criticism surrounding Fox’s contract often centers on the idea that he is being paid like a primary option.

That may be true financially, but it overlooks how his skill set fits alongside Wembanyama.

Fox’s speed, ability to attack the paint, and playmaking create a dynamic that complements a dominant interior presence. Rather than needing to be the number one option, he thrives as a player who can collapse defenses and open up opportunities for others.

That type of fit holds value, even if it looks different from traditional star production.

The Bigger Picture

One playoff loss sparked a wave of criticism, but his last two games to seal out the series ended it.

The 28-year-old did not suddenly become a different player over the course of a week. Instead, the perception around him changed because of the results, which is often how narratives work in the playoffs.

De’Aaron Fox’s role in San Antonio is not to run the offense every night. His production, experience, and ability to control games make him a strong complementary piece next to Wembanyama. Performances like the ones that closed out the series serve as a reminder of that.

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