The San Antonio Spurs are facing a potential backcourt crisis just hours before a pivotal Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Guards De'Aaron Fox and rookie Dylan Harper have both been listed as questionable for Tuesday night's matchup, leaving the team's depth in serious doubt as they prepare for one of the biggest games of the season.
The series is tied 2-2 after a thrilling Game 4 that saw the Timberwolves rally from an eight-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Anthony Edwards delivered a superstar performance down the stretch, while the Spurs were forced to play without MVP finalist Victor Wembanyama, who was ejected in the second quarter for elbowing Minnesota big man Naz Reid. The NBA decided not to suspend Wembanyama, so he will return for Game 5—but his backcourt partners might not be so lucky.
Fox was initially listed as questionable on Monday with a sore right ankle, and Harper joined him on Tuesday's injury report with left knee soreness. Both are expected to be game-time decisions for the 8 p.m. ET tip-off at Frost Bank Center. Harper did participate in Tuesday morning's shootaround, which offers a glimmer of hope for Spurs fans.
The injury report highlights a stark contrast in performance between the two guards this series. Fox, a two-time All-Star, has struggled mightily against Minnesota's relentless defense. Through four games, he's averaging just 16.8 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 turnovers while shooting a dismal 37.9% from the field and 22.2% from three-point range. The veteran ball-handler has looked uncomfortable against the Timberwolves' physical pressure, and a balky ankle won't make things any easier.
Harper, on the other hand, has been a revelation. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft has provided a spark off the bench, averaging 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.5 steals in just 24.5 minutes per game. He's shooting an impressive 55% from the field, and his energy has been a key factor in San Antonio's success. In Game 4, the 20-year-old exploded for 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals in 27 minutes, including 13 points in the second half as the Spurs fought to stay alive without Wembanyama.
With the series now a best-of-three sprint to the Western Conference Finals, every possession matters. The Spurs will need their backcourt to be at full strength if they hope to contain Edwards and the Timberwolves' surging offense. For a team that thrives on depth and versatility, losing either Fox or Harper—or both—would be a devastating blow at the worst possible time. All eyes will be on the injury report as tip-off approaches.