The San Antonio Spurs didn't mean for De'Aaron Fox to be a temporary addition. When they traded for him, they were perfectly happy to give up three first-round picks and a smattering of role players.
As soon as they could, they signed him to a four-year maximum contract extension. Sure, at that point, they had already drafted Dylan Harper, although they didn't expect him to usurp Fox in just his first postseason appearance.
The Spurs' vision, at the time, was to trot out a trio of Fox, Stephon Castle, and Victor Wembanyama, and surround them with shooting threats like Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and Julian Champagnie.
The Spurs' situation changed, though, and Fox has never actually been allowed to reach personal highs with his new team.
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During Fox's peak with the Sacramento Kings, he averaged well over 25 points, was an above-average facilitator, and could hold his own on defense. Was he a perfect player? No, his shooting often held him back.
More often than not, the Kings played below-average basketball while Fox was on the roster. Part of that was due to their own mismanagement, although it's worth pointing out that Fox was often asked to do too much.
In San Antonio, his role has shifted, and he's found himself playing off-ball more often than not. His 24.9 usage percentage last season was the lowest since his second season in the NBA. In short, this is a man who's used to having the ball in his hands.
Should the Spurs acquiesce? The Kings' record with Fox in the lineup suggests not, although his lack of production, especially in the postseason, suggests otherwise.
As long as Fox is on the roster, expect the Spurs to put him in the best possible position to succeed. It seems like he will be the day-one starting point guard for the Spurs this season, and there is an argument to be made that San Antonio should double down.
Instead of taking the ball away from Fox and giving it to Harper, maybe the Spurs should finally let him do what he does best and take control of the offense.
