Mavericks fans know exactly what Spurs fans are feeling about De'Aaron Fox right now
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Mavericks fans know exactly what Spurs fans are feeling about De'Aaron Fox right now originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Dallas Mavericks are nowhere near the NBA Finals, but their fans know exactly what Spurs fans are feeling after Game 4. When a team suffers a devastating playoff collapse, the conversation quickly shifts from the loss itself to whether a highly paid star is living up to expectations. That is where De'Aaron Fox finds himself right now.
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San Antonio appeared to have complete control against the New York Knicks before blowing a 29-point lead in one of the most shocking collapses of the postseason. The turning point that many fans focused on came late in the game.
With the Spurs leading by one, Fox recovered a loose ball and attacked the basket instead of slowing the pace and forcing New York to foul. OG Anunoby blocked the shot, and the Knicks seized momentum shortly afterward.
One possession did not cost San Antonio the game, but playoff losses have a way of magnifying every mistake. That scrutiny has only intensified because of Fox's contract. Earlier this year, the Spurs signed him to a four-year, $229 million extension, making him one of the franchise's biggest investments.
That is why Mavericks fans can relate. They have seen how quickly fan frustration can turn into a debate over value.
Once a player is paid like a superstar, every postseason mistake carries more weight. Fans expect elite performances in defining moments, and anything less invites criticism.
The discussion has also been fueled by Fox's production. After averaging 27.4 points per game during Sacramento's 2023 playoff run, he has averaged 16 points this postseason while sharing offensive responsibilities with Victor Wembanyama.
Meanwhile, young Spurs players such as Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper have continued to impress, creating even more comparisons.
Fox is not solely responsible for San Antonio's collapse. Teams do not blow 29-point leads because of one player.
Still, Mavericks fans understand what happens after losses like this. The focus shifts from one game to bigger questions about a star player, a massive contract, and whether the investment will ultimately be worth it.
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