Dylan Harper was cooking this year, but, that was also his downfall.
At 5–1, they sit second in the Western Conference, right behind the Oklahoma City Thunder — a statement few would’ve believed a month ago. But as the wins pile up, so do the injuries. The Spurs’ young roster just got hit with another major setback: rookie guard Dylan Harper will miss multiple weeks due to a strained left calf, according to Shams Charania.
Dylan Harper, who’s averaging 14 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds per game, has been one of the brightest surprises of the young season. The No. 7 overall pick was showing poise beyond his years — controlling pace, defending up, and giving the Spurs an extra gear next to Victor Wembanyama.
But now? San Antonio’s depth is being tested early.
🩹 A Bruised but Battling Spurs Squad
The Spurs’ injury report is starting to look like a starting five of its own.
Here’s the latest:
- Dylan Harper (G): Out multiple weeks — strained left calf
- Jeremy Sochan (F): Out with a wrist injury
- Lindy Waters III (F): Out with an eye injury
- Kelly Olynyk (F): Out with a heel issue
- Luke Kornet (C): Out with an ankle injury
That’s four rotation pieces gone — and two starters.
The good news? None of these injuries are considered season-ending. The bad news? It might derail momentum for a team that’s been shocking the league with their defense, chemistry, and speed.
Harper’s absence specifically hurts their guard rotation, leaving more pressure on veterans like Tre Jones and rookie backup Malaki Branham to handle playmaking duties. Jones is steady, but Harper’s shot creation and energy were helping unlock Wemby’s offense.
🧠 How It Affects Dylan Harper’s Rookie of the Year Case
Before the injury, Dylan Harper was quietly climbing the Rookie of the Year ladder. His balanced stat line and leadership presence were earning him comparisons to early-career Tyrese Haliburton — smart, smooth, and reliable.
Now, missing multiple weeks could hurt that campaign. With players like Kon Knueppel and VJ Edgecombe putting up highlight performances across the league, Harper’s momentum may stall. But if he returns quickly and the Spurs keep winning, he’ll still have a path — especially if he helps them maintain a top-4 seed.
The key? Staying efficient when he’s back. He’s already proven he can handle NBA defenses — now it’s about recovery and rhythm.
⚙️ What It Means for the Spurs’ Identity
Gregg Popovich’s system has always thrived on adaptability. But this is going to test even him.
Without Dylan Harper and Sochan, the Spurs lose their defensive switchability and a ton of their offensive spacing. Wembanyama may have to take on even more ball-handling responsibility, something fans have been curious to see develop.
Expect the Spurs to lean heavier on Wemby post touches, transition plays, and maybe even a few small-ball looks with Branham at point and Keldon Johnson sliding up to the four.
If they can stay above .500 through this injury stretch, it’ll say a lot about this team’s mental toughness — and their future.
🔥 Big Picture: Don’t Count Out the Spurs Yet
The Spurs’ injuries are serious, but their culture is stronger. Harper’s injury may delay his breakout — but it doesn’t erase it.
San Antonio still has a top-five defense, Wembanyama is looking like a Defensive Player of the Year candidate already, and their chemistry is elite for such a young group.
They’ve shown the NBA that this rebuild is ahead of schedule. Harper may be out, but this is just another chapter in a team that refuses to fold.
If anything, this might just fuel their fire.
