Spurs Hit by Fresh Injury Blow as Dylan Harper Exits Game 2 Against Thunder

Posted : 21 May 2026

The San Antonio Spurs suffered another major setback in their Western Conference finals campaign after rookie guard Dylan Harper picked up a right hamstring injury during Wednesday’s 122-113 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2.

The injury occurred in the third quarter as Harper drove to the basket and was blocked at the rim by Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He immediately grabbed his leg, left the court, and briefly returned to the bench before heading back to the locker room for further evaluation.

San Antonio’s injury troubles were already severe, with veteran guard De'Aaron Fox sidelined for a second straight game due to a high ankle sprain. Harper had been filling in as a starter in Fox’s absence, making his injury particularly damaging to the Spurs’ backcourt depth.

Head coach Mitch Johnson said there was no immediate update on Harper’s condition, with an MRI scheduled to determine the severity of the injury. He admitted the team is being stretched thin due to a lack of healthy primary ball handlers.

The Spurs have struggled with turnovers throughout the series, particularly from young guard Stephon Castle, who has taken on increased playmaking duties. San Antonio has committed 44 turnovers in two games, allowing Oklahoma City to score heavily off mistakes.

Despite the pressure, Castle has shown flashes of offensive production, though he acknowledged that fatigue and increased responsibility have affected his decision-making. Teammates have continued to back him, stressing the importance of collective support rather than individual blame.

Harper’s injury came during a strong playoff stretch for the 20-year-old, who had impressed in Game 1 with a standout all-around performance. His emergence had been a key boost for San Antonio during an injury-hit postseason run.

Star center Victor Wembanyama noted that missing key ball handlers has made life difficult for the team, highlighting the importance of protecting possession and improving offensive organization.

With both Fox and Harper uncertain for Game 3, the Spurs are expected to rely more heavily on bench options such as Jordan McLaughlin and Keldon Johnson to handle playmaking duties as the series shifts to San Antonio.

Spurs Hit by Fresh Injury Blow as Dylan Harper Exits Game 2 Against Thunder

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