Spurs' Dylan Harper Shines in Preseason Debut

Harper flashed his handle and change-of-pace ability on a few drives, on which he either found an open teammate or finished at the rim. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson ran multiple horns sets with Victor Wembanyama and Luke Kornet as the screeners, which allowed Harper to get downhill with relative ease. 

The newest Spur was as good as advertised offensively, but his defense particularly stood out. Harper hounded opposing ball-handlers as they dribbled up the court, creating multiple turnovers on errant passes not credited as steals in the box score. His effort was outstanding and exactly what you’d want to see from a rookie that will have to play well to increase his role this season. 

Harper did get beaten a few times by Jazz guards Walter Clayton Jr. and Keyontae George–his lateral quickness and foot speed can be an issue at times, but overall, his motor and physicality were encouraging signs. 

The Spurs' second overall pick showed flashes of why the organization was comfortable using a high draft pick on him despite having two other on-ball guards on the roster. His game was as good as one could hope for coming off an injury. 

Harper will have the chance to build on his inaugural performance on Monday, when the Spurs travel to Indianapolis to play the Pacers.