The San Antonio Spurs are not rushing to shake up their backcourt after a rough NBA Finals run. Despite De'Aaron Fox’s subpar playoff performance, the team still views the two-time All-Star as central to its future plans.
What happened in the Finals?
Fox averaged just 12.8 points and 6.0 assists while shooting 34.3 percent from the field and 25.0 percent from three during the Spurs’ five-game loss to the New York Knicks on June 14, 2026. The Knicks closed out the series with a 94-90 win in Game 5, leaving San Antonio searching for answers. Rookie Dylan Harper, meanwhile, flashed promise off the bench with 18.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.
Why San Antonio Spurs are sticking with Fox
Multiple team and league sources told The Athletic’s Jared Weiss that the Spurs still see Fox as a critical piece despite his Finals struggles. His experience gives him an edge over Harper and 2025 Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle in running the offense. Fox’s ability to read the game’s tempo and set up teammates remains vital as the younger guards develop.
Harper has signaled he’s willing to remain patient and embrace a sixth-man role next season. That flexibility could ease the transition as he learns to orchestrate an offense full-time. The Spurs’ backcourt trio closed games together at times, but starting all three is unlikely unless one becomes a reliable shooter.
The contract factor
Fox’s four-year, $229 million extension makes him nearly untouchable in trade talks right now. The Spurs must focus on helping him regain form next season. A strong playoff run could restore his trade value and smooth the eventual handoff to Harper and Castle.
What comes next for the Spurs?
The team’s recent form isn’t inspiring. San Antonio’s last five games ended 1W-0D-4L, with losses in the final two contests. Rebuilding the backcourt’s chemistry while managing expectations will be the priority as the Spurs look ahead to next season.
