The dog days of the NBA season are here, making it the perfect time for hot takes, wild comparisons, and outrageous mock trades. While much of the attention around the San Antonio Spurs has focused on Victor Wembanyama, the fourth overall pick, Stephon Castle, who is seen as the team’s future point guard, is also garnering interest. Recently, he showcased his offensive skills during a pickup game, demonstrating his capability to drive to the rim and finish against taller or faster opponents.
Castle is oversized for a guard, yet he isn’t particularly quick, though he effectively leverages his first step. In just two Summer League games, he impressed with averages of 17.3 points, five rebounds, and four assists. While his offensive efficiency needs improvement, he has already established himself as one of the top defenders in this draft class, if not one of the best defenders in the NBA.
With Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, Castle, and Wembanyama, the Spurs are building a defensive-minded young core poised to challenge the league. Castle’s defensive prowess and ability to control the game at a slower pace have drawn comparisons to Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.
Very Jimmy Butler-like go-at-your-own pace, lull you to sleep style to his game. Helps mitigate not having an overwhelming first step. https://t.co/TVuRsyKzLy
— Trevor Zickgraf (@TrevorWrites) August 31, 2024
Castle, similar to Butler, is not the top shooter, although Butler has made strides in recent seasons. Butler is a five-time All-Defensive Team member and has received Defensive Player of the Year votes in six seasons. If Castle can achieve that level of success, especially with Wembanyama guarding the rim, the Spurs could quickly become one of the elite teams in the NBA.
Unlike Butler, Castle aims to play a facilitating role on offense. While Butler thrives with the ball, his career average of 4.3 assists per game highlights his score-first mentality. With shooters like Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and possibly Keldon Johnson surrounding him, along with Wembanyama as a constant threat down low, Castle should feel confident in setting up his teammates.
As the Spurs strive for a winning future, a young core featuring a Jimmy Butler clone and an “Alien” like Wembanyama looks promising for both offensive and defensive success.
Leave a Reply