The San Antonio Spurs are heading into Game 4 against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder with injury concerns still hanging over their backcourt, though both De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper are expected to be available on Sunday, according to head coach Mitch Johnson. Fox returned in Game 3 after a high ankle sprain, but he did not look fully mobile, while Harper was also limited after suffering an adductor injury in Game 2. Fox briefly aggravated the issue in the third quarter when Luguentz Dort fell on his ankle, but he was able to finish the game.
The Spurs now face the challenge of trying to stay competitive in the series while dealing with two key guards who are not at full strength. Harper was held to six points on seven shots in Game 3, well below his recent scoring pace, and Fox’s effectiveness was also visibly reduced. Their availability offers some relief, but their physical condition remains a major factor as the series shifts to a crucial fourth game.
Victor Wembanyama continues to be the centerpiece of San Antonio’s playoff push and has emerged as one of the most impactful players in the 2026 postseason. Still, after the Spurs dropped back-to-back games to Oklahoma City, the 22-year-old star said he needs to do more to help the team function offensively. Wembanyama pointed to improving his team play, including better facilitation, rebounding, and overall ability to create for his teammates. He acknowledged that his scoring numbers have been solid, but said he must make others better if San Antonio is going to respond.
Head coach Johnson said one of the Spurs’ main priorities is reducing the Thunder’s trips to the free throw line. Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drew 12 free throw attempts in Game 3, and Johnson said many of those fouls were avoidable and came from defensive lapses. He stressed that the Spurs need to be more disciplined and avoid putting the Thunder in favorable situations at the line.
Wembanyama described Game 4 as an important test for the young Spurs group, noting that many players are experiencing this stage of the playoffs for the first time. He said the team expected to face difficult moments but now must show what it is made of. Johnson also pointed out that San Antonio may need to adjust its offense because much of its attack this season depended on Fox, Harper, and Stephon Castle using the attention drawn by Wembanyama. With two of those guards dealing with injuries, the Spurs’ usual formula is harder to sustain.
The matchup now represents a major proving ground for San Antonio, which must balance health concerns, defensive discipline, and offensive adjustments if it hopes to halt Oklahoma City’s momentum.
