Harper Remains Sidelined With Adductor Injury as Spurs Prepare for Game 4

SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio Spurs rookie guard Dylan Harper remains sidelined with a right adductor injury as the team faces the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4 of the 2026 Western Conference Finals on May 24.

Harper suffered the injury in the third quarter of Game 2 on May 20 when the Thunder defeated the Spurs 122-113. He recorded 12 points, two rebounds and three assists in 25 minutes before exiting and not returning. The Spurs listed him as questionable for Game 3, but he did not play in the 123-108 loss that gave Oklahoma City a 2-1 series lead.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson provided an update on May 23, stating Harper had shown some improvement in mobility but was still not cleared for Game 4. The team continues to evaluate his condition daily with medical staff.

Injury Details

The adductor strain occurred while Harper was driving to the basket. He attempted to return after receiving treatment in the locker room during Game 2 but was held out by medical personnel. The injury has limited his lateral movement and explosiveness, key components of his playing style.

Harper, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft out of Rutgers, started Games 1 and 2 in place of De’Aaron Fox, who missed Game 2 with a right ankle sprain. In Game 1, a double-overtime Spurs win, Harper posted 24 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and seven steals.

Impact on Spurs Roster

With Harper out, the Spurs have relied on Harrison Barnes and Jordan McLaughlin for additional backcourt minutes. Fox returned in Game 3 and scored 15 points. The team’s guard depth has been tested throughout the series.

Victor Wembanyama has shouldered a heavy load, averaging strong scoring and rebounding numbers. In Game 3, he recorded 26 points on 8-of-15 shooting.

Series Situation

The Thunder lead the best-of-seven series 2-1. Oklahoma City overcame a 15-0 deficit in Game 3, powered by a playoff-record 76 points from its bench. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 26 points and 12 assists.

Game 4 at Frost Bank Center is critical for the Spurs. A victory would tie the series at 2-2. A loss would put Oklahoma City one win away from returning to the NBA Finals as defending champions.

Harper’s Rookie Season

The 20-year-old guard earned All-Rookie First Team honors after the regular season. He averaged 14.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game during the regular season. His playoff performances in the early rounds and Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals showcased his speed, athleticism and defensive impact.

Harper has been a key part of the Spurs’ youth movement alongside Wembanyama. His absence has forced adjustments in ball movement and perimeter defense.

Medical and Recovery Timeline

Adductor strains typically require varying recovery periods depending on severity. Grade 1 strains often heal in one to two weeks, while more significant tears can sideline players for several weeks. The Spurs have not provided a specific timeline for Harper’s return, saying only that he is progressing in treatment.

The team has emphasized caution with the injury to avoid long-term setbacks. Harper has participated in limited non-contact activities and continues to work with the training staff.

Broader Playoff Context

The Western Conference Finals have been marked by injuries on both sides. Thunder forward Jalen Williams missed Game 3 with a right hamstring strain. The physical nature of the series has contributed to various ailments across both rosters.

Oklahoma City has utilized its depth effectively, particularly in Game 3. The Spurs have leaned heavily on Wembanyama and their remaining healthy rotation players.

Fan and Team Support

Spurs fans have expressed support for Harper on social media and at games. The organization has provided regular updates through official channels while respecting medical privacy guidelines.

Harper has not made public statements about the injury since Game 2. Teammates have noted his positive attitude and commitment to recovery during the series.

Upcoming Schedule

Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Frost Bank Center. If the series extends, Game 5 would be in Oklahoma City. The Spurs hope to have Harper available for potential later games, though no confirmation has been given.

The Western Conference Finals feature two young, talented teams. The Thunder, as defending champions, have shown resilience. The Spurs have demonstrated competitiveness despite health challenges to key guards.