Fox's nonstop growth places him among these elite point guards

If you're following Spurs media, you'll notice an unnecessary amount of buzz surrounding De'Aaron Fox, but not for the right reasons. Just months removed from the blockbuster deal that freed Fox from Sacramento, many are already writing his obituary.

Just because the Spurs magically lucked into the second overall pick and added a hopeful superstar, that doesn't mean we need to kick out the one we already have.

Somehow, Fox has become one of the most underrated players in the NBA. Fox has made an All-NBA team, won Clutch Player of the Year, and averaged over 20 points per game for nearly the entirety of his career. No matter what the future holds, hopefully remaining in San Antonio, Fox deserves your respect.

Understanding where he ranks among his positional group will be the first step in convincing the anti-Fox crowd to change their ways. Now on a team that perfectly fits what he likes to do, Fox will recapture the attention of the NBA next season.

The 27-year-old Fox is still mastering his craft

Despite entering his 9th season in the NBA, Fox is still getting better and has the opportunity to transcend. Many like to view his otherworldly 2022-23 campaign as his peak, but I am here to tell you that he still has more room to grow.

In particular, Fox is honing in on creating a devastating three-point shot. As a pure rim-running slasher, a consistent and reliable three-ball would change everything for Fox. While the 2023-24 season was Fox's most experimental year with the shot, next season could be the year he brings it all together.

Previously, Fox had never had a supporting cast like he does now. While Domantas Sabonis was a great two-man operation partner, he doesn't come close to Victor Wembanyama. The pair will play perfectly off each other in the pick-and-pop game and will give each other immense room to make magic happen.

Further, with Stephon Castle also posing a threat to defenses, the defensive attention won't be so harsh on Fox in San Antonio. Fox has never had an opportunity like this. Most importantly, head coach Mitch Johnson will give Fox the freedom to control the floor and play freely. This kind of freedom will do wonders for the veteran.

De'Aaron Fox belongs in this prime point guard class

Now that it is established that Fox is preparing for an excellent season, where does he fall in the point guard ranks?

Obviously, Fox is a big step behind some of the Hall-of-Fame-level talents we have in our game today. Players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Steph Curry, and Luka Doncic are in a class of their own.

Stepping further out, it is tricky to place Fox among the likes of rising superstars Tyrese Haliburton and Cade Cunningham, along with established veterans Jalen Brunson and Trae Young. However, once you get past these names, Fox has an attractive case.

In competition with Fox for being a top-10 point guard are James Harden, Ja Morant, LaMelo Ball, and Darius Garland, among others. I believe Fox is on his way to proving his worth among these names and rising to the top of this tier, if he isn't already there. Unlike many names in this range, Fox has maintained good health and consistently been at the top of his game.

As it currently stands, Fox deserves your attention as a top-10 point guard in the NBA today. Removed from the mess that is Sacramento, Fox will cement himself among this group next season in San Antonio. With an unstoppable inside game, a growing outside shot, and unmatched hustle, Fox is a quiet talent that justifies his place among the best in the game.