NBA

Tobias Harris sidelined for preseason with calf injury

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 5, 2026, 04:54 IST

San Antonio Spurs newcomer Tobias Harris is set to miss the remainder of the preseason after sustaining a left calf strain, putting his availability for the season opener against Oklahoma City in doubt.

Tobias Harris sidelined for preseason with calf injury

The San Antonio Spurs have confirmed that newly signed forward Tobias Harris will be sidelined for the duration of the preseason. The veteran player sustained a left calf strain during training camp, an injury that has now cast uncertainty over his participation in the team's regular-season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 20.

The announcement was made by the organization shortly before their intrasquad scrimmage on Sunday. According to a team spokesperson, Harris did not participate in the scrimmage and is scheduled to undergo a formal re-evaluation once the preseason concludes to determine his recovery timeline.

Impact of the injury on Spurs rotation

Harris, 34, joined the Spurs in July on a two-year contract valued at $31 million. His arrival was viewed as a significant addition to the San Antonio frontcourt, with the coaching staff initially planning to feature him in the starting lineup. Known for his ability to provide consistent perimeter shooting and effective floor spacing, his absence during the preseason preparation period represents a notable setback for the team's tactical integration.

Background on Harris's recent performance

The forward arrives in San Antonio following a productive tenure with the Detroit Pistons. During his second stint in Detroit, Harris averaged 13.5 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. He played a pivotal role in the franchise's recent resurgence, helping the team transition from a bottom-tier squad to a competitive unit that secured 60 victories last season. This turnaround culminated in the Pistons' first playoff appearance since 2008, with Harris providing essential veteran leadership to one of the youngest rosters in the NBA.

Prior to his time in Detroit, where he signed a two-year, $52 million deal in 2024, Harris spent six seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers. As the Spurs look ahead to their October 20 matchup, the medical staff will continue to monitor his progress to see if he can return to the court in time for the start of the regular season.