Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs vs. New Orleans Pelicans
De’Aaron Fox makes his long-awaited season debut on Saturday as the San Antonio Spurs host the injury-plagued New Orleans Pelicans. This game marks the second night of a back-to-back for the Spurs, while the Pelicans last played on Wednesday.
Despite New Orleans missing key players, they remain a threat due to the NBA trend of undermanned teams pulling off upsets. After the way the season began, a poor performance in this tune-up would seriously damage San Antonio’s credibility.
Injury Updates
- San Antonio Spurs: Injury report not expected until 1 PM.
- New Orleans Pelicans:
- Zion Williamson (left hamstring strain) — out
- Dejounte Murray (Achilles) — out
- Yves Missi (illness) — out
- Jordan Poole (left quad strain) — out
- Hunter Dickinson (G League) — out
- Trey Alexander (G League) — out
Fox and Wembanyama’s Role in Offense
The Spurs are unlikely to overload the offense through Fox, but he will play significant minutes and receive quality opportunities. Expect Fox to get easy looks on the baseline or in the slot when moving off Stephon Castle’s penetration.
Although Wembanyama averages only one screen assist per game, the Spurs plan to increase screen-rolls and hand-offs to create more chances for Fox in the half court. Harrison Barnes is likely to benefit from corner shots when Fox and Wemby run two-man plays.
“It wouldn’t be very Spurs-like for them to force-feed Fox, but he will get plenty of burn playing within the offense.”
Author’s summary: The Spurs face a crucial test against an injury-hit Pelicans team as De’Aaron Fox returns, with tactical adjustments expected to maximize their playmaking and shooting opportunities.
Would you like the summary tone to be more formal or casual?