Ranking the Spurs' five most important bench players for the 2026-27 season

While starters in the NBA get the bulk of the praise, admiration, and attention, contenders are built by more than the opening unit. Last year, the Spurs' bench was one of the strongest in the league during the regular season, but it shrank considerably in the latter portion of the playoffs.

Spurs fans will hope beyond hope that doesn't happen again next time, as it's always better to have more contributors than fewer. But those players will have to spend another 82 games proving themselves, preparing for their next opportunity in hopes they can reach another NBA Finals. And these five reserves will have the biggest impact on making that a reality.

5. Keldon Johnson - The energy guy

Keldon's role has changed dramatically over the years, but he's still here because there's value to what he brings. KJ gives the Spurs physicality on the wing, injecting life into the second unit and, sometimes, the entire team. Whether he's forcing the issue in transition or simply playing off emotion, Big Body can swing the momentum of a game at the drop of a dime.

4. Carter Bryant - The Spurs' new Swiss-Army knife

This label used to belong to Jeremy Sochan to a degree, but it's much more befitting of CB. He's not going to stuff the stat sheet, but he'll do everything else. He uses his athleticism to terrorize offenses, guarding multiple positions. Bryant runs the floor, knocks down open shots, and rises up to flush down monstrous dunks on opponents' melons.

3. Tobias Harris - The Spurs' safety blanket

Harris will provide production that the Silver and Black can depend on. As a 15-year veteran, Tobias is skilled at slowing down the game and getting to his spots for a bucket, especially when his team is faltering. His experience will help steady the Spurs' young lineups. They'll benefit from having another guy out there who can calm things down.

2. Luke Kornet/Tarris Reed Jr. - Wembanyama's backup

This is one of the most important roles on the team, and that's why it's ranked over the steady hand of a Tobias. However, I'm not convinced Kornet will hold onto the spot as Wemby's primary backup. Reed is more athletic and versatile. Luke is a heady player with experience. Something will give during the season, but as long as someone is available to hold down the fort when Vic rests, the Spurs are good.

1. Dylan Harper - Spurs' backup generator

San Antonio's three-guard rotation works because every player is deadly in their own way. Harper can carry an offense in bursts whenever necessary, and the Spurs will need that when De'Aaron Fox and/or Stephon Castle sit. As a big man, Wembanyama shouldn't have to initiate, and the coaching staff shouldn't want him to with weapons like this around him.

Harper's relentless rim pressure adds another gravity-inducing tool to the court that opens things up for others. As he continues to improve as a playmaker, he'll only be harder to contain, elevating the firepower of this ball club even more. Not to mention, he's a stud of a defender to boot.

Championship teams don't just have stars. They have answers that come in different shapes and sizes. Every player on this list fills a different need, making the Spurs one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. If they continue to embrace their roles, they'll be a significant reason San Antonio makes another deep playoff run.

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