San Antonio, Texas – The conversation surrounding Stephon Castle’s future with the San Antonio Spurs has undergone a dramatic shift. Just months ago, speculation lingered about whether the young guard might become a trade asset as the team constructed its roster around Victor Wembanyama. Now, opinions have flipped, with some suggesting Castle is virtually untouchable.
From Trade Bait to Untouchable: Castle’s Meteoric Rise
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What’s driving the sudden change in perception of Stephon Castle?
Initially, the Spurs’ guard depth – bolstered by the acquisition of De’Aaron Fox and the drafting of Dylan Harper – led to whispers about potential moves. If Castle’s shooting didn’t develop, some theorized he could be the player moved, especially if a star became available elsewhere. However, those discussions have largely evaporated.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently stated in mid-december that the Spurs are “not sure they would trade him for anybody in the league.” Draymond Green took it a step further, declaring on his podcast that Castle is a “winner” who is changing the culture of the Spurs.
Statistical Leap and All-Around Impact
Castle’s performance this season has been nothing short of remarkable. He’s currently one of only six players in the league averaging at least 18 points, six assists, and five rebounds while shooting 50% from the field. While his three-point shooting remains a work in progress (28%), he’s showing advancement, making 62% of his two-point attempts – a meaningful increase from his 50% rookie campaign.
Castle’s driving ability has also seen a marked improvement. He’s averaging 13.6 drives per game, up from 9.4 as a rookie. Inside the restricted area, he’s converting 70% of his attempts, and 54% outside, a ample jump from his 34% rookie clip.
Drawing Comparisons to NBA Stars
Observers are beginning to draw comparisons to established NBA stars. Castle’s crafty drives and ability to create space evoke memories of Chris Paul, while his strength and balance on step-back jumpers resemble Jimmy Butler. The similarities to Butler are particularly striking, encompassing two-way impact, poise, finishing through contact, and a generally forceful style of play.
Spurs coach Mitch Johnson previously praised Castle’s versatility, noting his ability to thrive in various roles with and without the ball. This adaptability is a key component of his value. While not a traditional three-and-D player like Harrison Barnes or a pure scorer like De’Aaron Fox, Castle possesses elements of all these skillsets, resembling a “supercharged Josh Hart” – a versatile ball-handler who excels on both ends of the court.
Historic Numbers and Continued Improvement
Earlier this month, Castle joined Magic Johnson as the only players in NBA history to record at least 250 points, 100 assists, and 90 rebounds on 50% shooting through their first 15 games of their second season. In his two games following the NBA Cup, he tallied 34 points and 14 assists on 66% shooting, making 12 of 13 two-point attempts.
His playmaking continues to evolve, and his catch-and-shoot three-point percentage is improving (almost 40% on unguarded attempts, up from 34% last year). This progress suggests he can become a more reliable floor spacer alongside Wembanyama, Fox, and Harper.
“Stephon Castle is a winner,” Green emphasized. “He’s been a winner his entire life. And I think Stephon Castle has brought the winning ways to the San Antonio spurs. The Spurs are a winning association, but they’ve been losing for a while and you’ve got to get those ways back. And Stephon Castle to me is one of the ultimate winners. He’s one of those types of guys… He’s a winner. He changes cultures. He’s won at every level he’s played at. And he will continue to win bigger and better at this level.”
