How David Jones Garcia proved Spurs could be fine amid Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper injuries

Despite their already substantial depth at both guard spots, the San Antonio Spurs gave David Jones Garcia a two-way contract in July. The Spurs could not let DJG walk away after an impressive NBA 2K26 Summer League outing, where he earned a First-Team nod. Jones Garcia’s signing could not have been more beneficial with the Spurs amid injuries to Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper.

On Thursday against the Atlanta Hawks, the Spurs also entered the game without the veteran Jordan McLaughlin (hamstring). Jones Garcia suddenly became the first guard off the bench when De'Aaron Fox took a breather.

With more playing time, the 6-foot-5 guard delivered. He tallied 12 points, six assists, five rebounds, three steals and one block in 19 minutes. DJG earned the game ball in the Spurs’ 135-126 win against the Hawks.

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David Jones Garcia proved himself a capable leader, showing he can run the offense in crucial stretches. His efficient shooting and impact on both ends contributed to San Antonio's best plus-minus on the floor. Jones Garcia provides on-court stability, shooting and playmaking that the Spurs urgently need.

Stephon Castle (hip) and Dylan Harper (calf) are out for at least a few more weeks. Jones Garcia showed that the Spurs could stay afloat with him as De’Aaron Fox’s backup.

Punishing road swing will test David Jones Garcia’s value and impact on Spurs

After a five-game homestand, which ended on Thursday, the San Antonio Spurs will embark on a punishing road swing. The Spurs will be away from Texas in 10 of their next 13 games. The brutal schedule will start with a stretch that includes stops in Phoenix, Portland, Denver and Minnesota.

Each of those four teams is in the top 10 in the Western Conference. Denver will be an acid test as the Nikola Jokic-led Nuggets are predicted to challenge the OKC Thunder for the championship.

This stretch alone will test David Jones Garcia’s impact on the Spurs. If the Spurs can thrive or hum while he runs the offense during Fox-less minutes, the team could survive the punishing schedule.

Overcoming the absence of Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper will be a tall task. But if De’Aaron Fox keeps playing like an All-Star while Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson step up, the Spurs have a chance.

The proof of the pudding is in the eating, allowing David Jones Garcia to show his real value.

Edited by Michael Macasero