The dog days of the NBA season are upon us, which means the time is ripe for hot takes, crazy comparisons, and insane mock trades. While most of the craziness involving the San Antonio Spurs has been centered on Victor Wembanyama, fourth overall pick and presumptive point guard of the future Stephon Castle is not immune.
He was recently seen working on his offensive skills during a pickup game, showcasing his ability to get to the rim and finish against larger or quicker players. Castle is oversized for a guard, but he is not particularly fast or quick, although he can make the most of his first step.
In only two Summer League games, Castle looked excellent, averaging 17.3 points, five rebounds, and four assists. His offensive efficiency could use some work, but he looked like one of the best defenders in the draft class if not one of the best defenders in the NBA already.
Between Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, Castle, and Wembanyama, the Spurs will have a defensive-minded young core that will be ready to terrorize the league.
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’s defense and ability to play at his own, slower, pace, has already drawn comparisons to Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.
Castle, like Butler, is not the best shooter out there, although Butler has improved in recent seasons. Butler is a five-time member of the All-Defennsive Team and received DPOTY votes in six different seasons. If Castle can mimic that level of success, with Wembanyama protecting the rim, the Spurs will quickly become one of the better teams in the NBA.
Castle, unlike Butler, wants to play a facilitating role on offense. While Butler is best with the ball in his hands, his career average of 4.3 assists per game further proves that he is a score-first player. With shooters like Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and ideally Keldon Johnson surrounding Castle, and Wembanyama always a threat down low, he should be able to get comfortable setting up his teammates.
As the Spurs look to build towards a winning future, a young core featuring a Jimmy Butler clone and an “Alien” should bode well for them on both sides of the ball.
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