Photo: Peter Baba

Dylan Harper may begin next season coming off the bench.

According to sources familiar with the Spurs’ thinking, Harper is expected to open the year in a sixth-man role because of San Antonio’s crowded backcourt.

Veteran point guard De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle remain ahead of Harper in the current guard hierarchy, making it difficult for him to break into the starting lineup.

Fox’s experience and ability to organize the offense continue to give him an edge, even after an inconsistent NBA Finals performance.

League sources believe Harper is unlikely to replace Fox as a starter unless the veteran is willing to move into a reserve role himself.

The Spurs are also reluctant to start Harper alongside both Fox and Castle unless one of the three significantly improves as a perimeter shooter.

Victor Wembanyama’s decision to forgo a potential supermax contract, made in part to preserve future financial flexibility, has helped create a team-first culture in San Antonio.

Sources familiar with Harper’s thinking said he understands that accepting a reserve role next season could be part of that approach.

Harper previously addressed the possibility, telling The Athletic that he viewed reigning Sixth Man of the Year Keldon Johnson as the team’s true sixth man and considered himself simply another member of the second unit.

Johnson’s uncertain contract situation this offseason, however, could still influence how the Spurs ultimately configure their rotation.

Dylan Harper Could Open Season As Spurs' Sixth Man https://t.co/iOAzuDfZI5