De'Aaron Fox trade updates, Spurs' influence, and future team strategy.©(@FandomMenaceLs_)
The San Antonio Spurs wasted no time making a significant move to complement Victor Wembanyama’s rising dominance. Less than a day after the Luka Dončić-Anthony Davis trade shook the NBA world, the Spurs made waves by acquiring De’Aaron Fox from the Sacramento Kings in a high-stakes, multi-team trade involving the Chicago Bulls.
De’Aaron Fox joins San Antonio in the deal, while Zach LaVine and multiple first-round picks head to Sacramento. The Bulls, meanwhile, receive a collection of role players as part of the trade. This move signals the Spurs’ commitment to fast-tracking their rebuild and capitalizing on Wembanyama’s generational talent.
De’Aaron Fox’s Impact on the Spurs
De’Aaron Fox brings an elite combination of speed, skill, and scoring ability. A one-time All-Star and an All-NBA Third Team selection, Fox has quietly become one of the league’s most dynamic guards. His quick first step and ability to finish at the rim make him a perfect fit alongside Wembanyama, who is already establishing himself as a franchise cornerstone.
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The addition of Fox provides the Spurs with a backcourt leader who can push the pace, create his shot, and facilitate for teammates. His presence immediately elevates the Spurs’ competitiveness and playoff aspirations while also giving Wembanyama a legitimate co-star.
De’Aaron Fox Contract Details
Fox signed a five-year, $163 million max contract with the Kings in 2021. Here’s a breakdown of his current deal:
Year | Salary | Option |
---|---|---|
2022 | $28,103,500 | No |
2023 | $30,351,780 | No |
2024 | $32,600,060 | No |
2025 | $34,848,340 | No |
2026 | $37,096,620 | No |
Fox is eligible for a new contract at the end of the 2025-26 season, though the Spurs could consider signing him to a long-term extension before then.
Spurs’ Salary Cap Flexibility
Despite taking on Fox’s lucrative contract, San Antonio remains financially strong. The Spurs are not currently near the luxury tax threshold and retain flexibility with several mid-tier contracts, including Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Harrison Barnes. Additionally, Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Jeremy Sochan are still on rookie-scale deals, further securing the team’s financial stability.
Looking ahead, San Antonio’s real financial challenge will come when Wembanyama becomes eligible for a supermax extension in 2028. If the projected salary cap rises to $187.1 million as anticipated, Wembanyama’s deal could command 30-35% of that cap, potentially exceeding $60 million annually. However, Fox’s lack of extensive accolades means his next contract will likely remain team-friendly, allowing the Spurs to add another star if necessary.
When Will De’Aaron Fox Become a Free Agent?
Fox will be 28 years old when he becomes a free agent after the 2025-26 season. Given the Spurs’ investment in Fox as Wembanyama’s backcourt partner, San Antonio may extend his deal well before he hits free agency.
De’Aaron Fox 2024-25 Season Stats
Fox has continued to impress this season, showcasing his scoring ability and all-around impact. Below are his stats so far:
Games | MPG | PPG | APG | RPG | BPG | SPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
45 | 37.0 | 25.0 | 6.1 | 5.0 | 0.4 | 1.5 | 46.9% | 32.2% | 82.9% |
Spurs’ Long-Term Outlook
With De’Aaron Fox now in the fold, the Spurs have cemented themselves as a rising force in the Western Conference. San Antonio’s roster construction allows for continued flexibility, with the ability to pursue another marquee talent in the coming years while maintaining cap stability.
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The Fox-Wembanyama duo immediately boosts the Spurs’ competitiveness, but the team’s long-term ceiling will be determined by how the front office navigates future extensions and potential trades. As Fox looks to make an impact in San Antonio, the franchise appears well-positioned for sustained success.