In the San Antonio Spurs‘ last game, they beat the lowly New Orleans Pelicans 135-132, and it gradually became a rookie showcase. Despite the headlines gravitating toward Pelicans rookie Derik Queen, Dylan Harper, the Spurs’ second overall pick, had an eye-opening performance.
The headlines have obviously focused on Queen, who did something no rookie center has even done before, having a 30-point triple-double. However, Harper had his own fantastic night. He scored 22 points with six assists, but also had the game-winning bucket. With nine seconds left, Harper drove to the paint, making a layup to put the Spurs up 133-132.
Despite dealing with an injury early in the season, missing 10 games, Harper is starting to settle in. After the win, Harper talked about his start to the season and the game-winning basket, saying, “I was a little iffy, a little hesitant, like, yeah, I’m the new guy trying to feel it out. But as the season kept going, my teammates and coaches, everyone encouraged me just to be me. I think plays like that just show that I’m going to attack no matter what.”
Harper did not fill out the stat sheet like Queen, but you could make an argument that his performance was more impactful. The Spurs are on the cusp of an NBA Cup Quarterfinals against the Los Angeles Lakers, with or without Victor Wembanyama, in which Harper will undoubtedly have a role.
Where Does Dylan Harper Fit on the Spurs Now
GettyDylan Harper going up for a dunk.
Even though the Spurs had the second overall pick in the last draft, it is no secret that this team has talent. Excipit A is Wembanyama himself, looking dominant before suffering his injury. Not to mention that last season, the Spurs rebuilt their guard room before adding Harper. They selected Stephon Castle fourth overall in 2024, and he went on to win Rookie of the Year. Then, at the deadline last season, the Spurs also traded for De’Aaron Fox.
Given that Harper is a rookie on a good team with a crowded backcourt, figuring out his role will take time. That comes with his own confidence, then with his teammates and coaching staff validating him. Harper’s comments after the Pelicans’ win showed everything is moving in the right direction.
In fact, that game against the Pelicans might be precisely what Harper’s role could end up being. Even though Fox and Castle got the start, Harper still played 25 minutes. Harper ended up closing the game over Castle and played more minutes than him. The Spurs are going to lean on the hot hand to close games, with three guards to choose from. Harper just has to make sure that’s him more often than not.
How Does Harper’s ROTY Campaign Look
GettyDylan Harper on San Antonio going up for a layup.
Usually, the second overall pick is a shoo-in to be a finalist for Rookie of the Year, but that might be a challenge for Harper this season. His first obstacle is his own team. The Spurs are too good, with a lot of talent. There are names above Harper on the offensive totem pole, which can limit his opportunities.
Then there are the other rookies getting more opportunities because of their situation. Queen is quickly becoming the focal point of the Pelicans’ offense, alongside fellow rookie Jeremiah Fears. Then, the first overall pick, Cooper Flagg, is officially breaking out for the Dallas Mavericks. Finally, the Charlotte Hornets have hit with their pick of Kon Knueppel, who has immediately made an impact.
However, what sets those rookies apart from Harper is that while they are on rebuilding teams, the Spurs are trying to make the playoffs. Those rookies will have more opportunities because of their rosters, plus more leeway to make mistakes, given the organization’s objective. But Harper’s road to winning ROTY is staking his claim on a playoff team.
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