Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox ruled out for Western Conference finals opener
San Antonio faces a significant roster adjustment as their third-leading postseason scorer misses the series debut, while Luke Kornet returns to the lineup.
San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox has been ruled out for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night, ESPN reported. The absence is due to a right ankle sprain that Fox sustained during the previous round of the playoffs.
The injury occurred in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Minnesota guard Ayo Dosunmu landed on Fox’s ankle while diving for a loose ball. Despite the impact, Fox finished that game and continued to play through the injury in Games 5 and 6, helping the Spurs close out the series against the Timberwolves.
Fox, a nine-year veteran, had not missed a game since March 25 prior to this latest development. He started 72 games during the regular season and ranks as the third-leading scorer for San Antonio in the postseason, trailing only Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle.
Statistically, Fox has maintained his production levels in the playoffs, averaging 18.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists. This performance is consistent with his regular season output of 18.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game.
In a positive development for the Spurs' frontcourt, center Luke Kornet, who had been listed as questionable with a left foot injury, is available for Game 1. ESPN’s Michael C. Wright contributed to the report.
