If a unit is moved back to base (e.g., with Flash) in response to a targeted action spell like Hextech Ray, does the spell fizzle, or can the caster choose a new target?

Ruling: When a targeted action spell like Hextech Ray resolves, if its target is no longer at a battlefield, it won't deal damage to its target. You cannot choose a different target at any point.

Sequence:

• When you play the spell, you choose its target
• If the target is moved before the spell resolves, the spell still resolves but does not deal damage
• The spell does as much as it can (e.g., Void Seeker would still draw a card even if the target is gone)

Nuances:

• This is different from spells with "do this:" wording, which create triggers that choose targets upon resolution (like Falling Star)
• Moving a unit with Flash before a spell resolves does not allow retargeting for normal targeted spells
• Dragon's Rage has been errata'd to function as a "do this:" spell even though it doesn't say so on the card