De'Aaron Fox questionable for Spurs' Game 5 with ankle soreness

The San Antonio Spurs are facing a new hurdle ahead of Game 5 of their Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, scheduled for May 12 at 8 p.m. ET. De'Aaron Fox, a key offensive player, has been listed as questionable due to left ankle soreness, a concern that has not surfaced since March 25. Fox played 37 minutes in Game 4, recording 24 points, four rebounds, three assists, and three steals, though he struggled from beyond the arc with just 1-for-7 shooting. Fox’s absence would strain the Spurs, who have leaned on him to create offense when Victor Wembanyama draws defensive attention. Over the past four second-round games, Fox has averaged 16.8 points, 4.0 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game. His 28-point performance in Game 4 was critical in setting up the close 114-109 loss, and his ability to operate in the paint has been vital to San Antonio’s postseason success. Without Fox, the Spurs would likely increase playing time for Dylan Harper and Keldon Johnson. Harper shot 72.7% in Game 4, finishing with 24 points, while Johnson contributed four points in 17 minutes. However, the team’s supporting cast has shown inconsistency, and the absence of Fox would place heavy reliance on Wembanyama and the bench. The series remains tied 2-2, and the Spurs hold home-court advantage for Game 5. A victory would keep them on track to advance to the Western Conference Finals, where they would face the winner of the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Lakers series. The Spurs are heavy favorites, but Fox’s availability remains a critical factor in their playoff push.