Dylan Harper has shown more than just No. 2 pick talent to start his rookie season, he has been a hand-in-glove fit with Victor Wembanyama and is a key part of why the San Antonio Spurs are off to a 5-1 start.
Which is why the news that he will be out multiple weeks with a calf strain — something confirmed by San Antonio on Monday — comes as a blow.
The good news is this was just a strain, nothing more. There was concern when Harper left Sundayâ€s game, then left the arena in a walking boot, that this could be something more, but there is no structural damage that will keep him out for an extended period, an “MRI on Monday revealed Harper avoided a significant absence,†reported Shams Charania of ESPN.
Harper is averaging 14 points, four rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game off the bench for the Spurs, but the raw numbers donâ€t capture how well he has played on both ends of the court. Harper has a smooth game with the ability to get to the rim, and also is shooting 35.7% from beyond the arc. He has not looked like a rookie, what he has looked like is a long-term fit next to Wembanyama.
Harper was injured in the second quarter Sunday trying to stop a post entry pass, then prevent a dunk by Phoenixâ€s Nick Richards. Harper was instantly limping after the play and came out of the game.
Injuries are piling up for the Spurs, who remain without Deâ€Aaron Fox, who has yet to play this season due to a hamstring issue. This will put more on the plate of Stephon Castle until one of he other guards can get healthy.
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