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 a depleted New Orleans Pelicans team. The Spurs face a back-to-back night while the Pelicans last played on Wednesday. Despite New Orleans' numerous absences, they remain a threat, as undermanned NBA teams often cause upsets.
Team Status
- San Antonio Spurs injuries: Not announced until 1PM game time.
- New Orleans Pelicans injuries:
- Zion Williamson – out due to left hamstring strain
- Dejounte Murray – out with Achilles injury
- Yves Missi – out with illness
- Jordan Poole – out with left quad strain
- Hunter Dickinson – assigned to G League
- Trey Alexander – assigned to G League
Offensive Strategy: Fox and Wembanyama
The Spurs are expected to carefully integrate Fox into their offense without overwhelming him. He will have opportunities for open looks, especially around the baseline and slot areas, capitalizing on penetration by Stephon Castle.
San Antonio plans to increase their use of screen-rolls and hand-offs to create plays for Fox in the half-court, despite Wembanyama currently averaging just one screen assist per game.
Harrison Barnes will benefit by receiving timely shots in the corner during two-man actions involving Fox and Wembanyama.
Given the season’s start, a strong showing in this low-stakes game remains crucial for the Spurs' credibility.
Author’s summary: Despite injuries, the Spurs aim to leverage Fox and Wembanyama’s synergy to maintain momentum against a weakened but dangerous Pelicans side.