Spurs' Fox Poised for Big Game with Wembanyama Out

Veteran guard set to shoulder more of the offense with Spurs' top stars sidelined

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:36pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking down a basketball game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes to represent the increased scoring responsibilities of Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox with his team's top players sidelined.A cubist painting captures the increased scoring role of Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox as his team's stars sit out with injuries.Today in Sacramento

With San Antonio Spurs stars Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle both listed as doubtful for Wednesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers, veteran guard De'Aaron Fox is poised for a big performance. Fox has consistently stepped up when the Spurs' top players have been sidelined, averaging 26.7 points in the nine games this season where Wembanyama and Castle have missed the same contest.

Why it matters

Fox's increased production in the absence of Wembanyama and Castle highlights his value as a secondary scoring option for the Spurs. His ability to shoulder more of the offensive load could be crucial as the team makes a playoff push in the final weeks of the season.

The details

In the nine games where Wembanyama and Castle have both been out, Fox has gone for 25 or more points in eight of those contests. His best performance came against the Trail Blazers, when he erupted for 37 points. With the Spurs' two stars sidelined again on Wednesday, Fox is expected to once again be the primary offensive focal point.

  • The Spurs have three games remaining in the 2025-26 NBA season.
  • Wembanyama and Castle are listed as doubtful for Wednesday's game against the Trail Blazers.

The players

De'Aaron Fox

A veteran guard for the San Antonio Spurs who has stepped up in a big way when the team's top players have been out of the lineup this season.

Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs' star rookie who is dealing with an injury and is listed as doubtful for Wednesday's game.

Stephon Castle

Another key player for the Spurs who is also listed as doubtful alongside Wembanyama for Wednesday's contest.

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What’s next

If Wembanyama and Castle are indeed held out, all eyes will be on Fox to lead the Spurs' offense on Wednesday night against the Trail Blazers.

The takeaway

With the Spurs' top scorers sidelined, this game presents a prime opportunity for veteran guard De'Aaron Fox to showcase his ability to step up and carry the offensive load for the team as they make a late-season playoff push.