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Spurs Rookie Shatters Ginobili's Playoff Record
11 May
Summary
- Dylan Harper scored 24 points off the bench against the Timberwolves.
- Harper achieved a playoff record not seen since Manu Ginobili in 2003.
- The Spurs are building depth for a potential playoff resurgence.
The San Antonio Spurs are demonstrating their enduring "next man up" philosophy, particularly evident in their recent playoff clash against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Following Victor Wembanyama's ejection in Game 4, which limited him to just 12 minutes of play, the team faced a critical juncture.
Coach Mitch Johnson strategically utilized Dylan Harper, who responded with an outstanding 27 minutes off the bench. Harper's offensive explosion yielded 24 points, marked by 72.7% field goal accuracy and perfect shooting from three-point range. He also converted all seven of his free throw attempts.
Beyond scoring, Harper proved a defensive force, securing seven rebounds and three steals. This all-around performance etched his name in the record books, as he became the first Spurs rookie off the bench to record at least 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals in an NBA playoff game since Manu Ginobili did so in the 2003 NBA Playoffs.
This emergence of bench talent, combined with Wembanyama's expected return, signals promising depth for the Spurs. Such contributions could bolster their chances of reaching the Western Conference Finals, a stage they haven't reached since 2017.
