Spurs rookie Dylan Harper reaches NBA Playoffs heights no one has ever reached originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The San Antonio Spurs are more than just the team of Victor Wembanyama. Coach Mitch Johnson ensure that depth is something they can boast in the NBA Playoffs and that is exactly what shows in their series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Keldon Johnson popped off and so did the rest of the bench. But, it was Dylan Harper who reached new heights and even got a postseason record that no rookie has ever touched.
Spurs’ Harper sets new NBA Playoffs rookie record
Coach Mitch Johnson has delegated Dylan Harper to the bench for the majority of the Spurs’ NBA Playoffs run. To other squads this may seem odd, but a member of the Gregg Popovich coaching tree would understand that this is a big opportunity for the rookie. Harper saw the vision and immediately delivered too.
In Game 5 against the Timberwolves, Coach Johnson played Harper for 25 huge minutes which was the most by a Spurs bench player. He went 50% from the field and 100% from the free throw line. The Spurs rookie also dropped two assists, grabbed 10 rebounds, notched a steal, and record a block. It was an all-around performance by Harper and it was undeniable.
He is the first rookie guard in league history with multiple 10+ points and 10+ rebounds games in the NBA Playoffs, per StatMuse. It is a true testament to his growth and Coach Johnson’s trust in him despite coming off the bench or being a rookie.
It is clear that he will be part of this Spurs culture for a long time. Victor Wembanyama may be Tim Duncan but it is apparent that Harper will be this iteration’s Manu Ginobili given his off-the-bench expertise.