The Spurs open their preseason with a 123-116 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, but Dylan Harper’s play stands out after he is placed in the starting lineup. Multiple outlets report Harper looks prepared for a bigger role, with his performance driving attention in a game the Spurs ultimately lose.
The coverage also notes that De’Aaron Fox does not play as he rests due to general soreness, shaping the rotation for the opener. The Athletic reports Spurs assistant Mitch Johnson promotes Harper to the starting unit for this preseason game, and Harper responds with strong results. Yahoo Sports adds that Harper is coming from a bench role last season, and suggests coaching plans may involve a three-guard lineup that fits Harper alongside other starters. Across outlets, the emphasis is on Harper’s readiness and the early look at how the Spurs may use him this year.
While the game result is negative for New York’s side, the main shared takeaway across reports is Harper’s transition from second-year guard to starter and the impact of that decision on the team’s preseason plans.
