SAN ANTONIO – In a notable development for the San Antonio Spurs as they gear up for the NBA season, head coach Mitch Johnson has announced that newcomer Tobias Harris will not be participating in the team’s season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder this Tuesday. Harris, who recently joined the Spurs, is currently recovering from a left calf strain sustained during training camp.
Johnson emphasized that the team is taking a cautious approach regarding Harris’s return. “We wouldn’t push for him to play in game one of the season,” he commented earlier, suggesting a focus on long-term health rather than immediate performance. As of Monday, Johnson expressed optimism about Harris’s recovery, stating that the forward is making good progress but will not be ready for the opener.
“He still needs some more progression on the court,” Johnson noted. “He’s progressing well. We feel really good about it.” This careful management underscores the Spurs’ commitment to ensuring their players are fit and ready before stepping onto the court.
Harris, who signed a two-year, $31 million contract with the Spurs over the summer, brings a wealth of experience to the team. Drafted in 2011, he previously played a pivotal role with the Detroit Pistons, helping them secure a top seed in the Eastern Conference in the 2025-2026 season, where he averaged 13.3 points per game and showcased his shooting prowess with a 36.8% accuracy from beyond the arc.
In addition to Harris’s absence, the Spurs will also be without rookie Jayden Quaintance, who is still recovering from knee surgery. At just 19 years old, Quaintance underwent the procedure in July and is continuing his rehabilitation process. His absence from the lineup adds to the challenges the Spurs face as they prepare to kick off their season.
As the Spurs look ahead to their matchup against the Thunder, the team remains hopeful for a swift recovery for both Harris and Quaintance, aiming to build a competitive roster throughout the season. The absence of key players in the opener highlights the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of player health in achieving team goals.
