Fox Returns: Spurs' Playmaker Back vs Pelicans

Merlin sees De'Aaron Fox poised to make his season debut Saturday after a hamstring recovery, per Shams Charania. The timing matters: the Spurs have dropped two straight after a 5-0 start and already face thin backcourt depth with rookie Dylan Harper sidelined. Fox’s playmaking and scoring can immediately change San Antonio’s offense and help their bid to end a long playoff drought. Merlin senses this outing is a barometer — Fox can start “weaving pick-and-roll spells” with Victor Wembanyama and create easy lobs or take over scoring when needed, but rust and managed minutes could limit the immediate impact. If he snaps in quickly, the Spurs regain traction; if not, watch how rotations and health determine their course.