In a relatively mediocre 2024 NBA Draft, prospective stars were few. However, thanks to the sharp eye of general manager Brian Wright, the Spurs snagged one of them. Stephon Castle, the reigning Rookie of the Year, is poised to dominate his entire rookie class.
Castle had a difficult journey to get to where he is now, but he has consistently improved. However, it will only become more difficult. Castle, who previously worked behind Chris Paul, will now compete against a fully healthy De’Aaron Fox, Victor Wembanyama, and rookie Dylan Harper. Despite this, Castle’s unrivaled ambition and persistence will propel him to stardom in year two.
Castle will get past the sophomore slump.
NBA fans like erecting an illusory wall in front of successful rookies, known as the sophomore slump. They expect rookies to confront the harsh realities of the NBA after coming onto the scene in their first year. However, this is not the case for all rookies. Only the best can burst through this illusory wall, and Castle will be one of them.
Castle played his best basketball of the season when given the chance. The young guard was a dynamo on the court, scoring in the dozens. With a green light, Castle demonstrated his scoring abilities, and his effort was unmistakable.
His electric shooting was no flash in the pan.
Castle excelled as a ball handler and shown his craftiness in isolation. Despite being considered a role player, he demonstrated great potential as a serious scoring danger. Castle excelled as a playmaker and defender. He is a true do-it-all guard with everything you could possibly want. These characteristics will not go gone very soon.
Castle can quickly improve on his rookie results in 2025-26, thanks to a complete season of labor. Both his 14.7 points and 4.1 assists will increase as he enters his sophomore season. Get ready, for Castle is about to erupt.
There is no doubt Castle will be a starter.
With Dylan Harper, the second overall pick, and De’Aaron Fox joining the starting lineup, many have wondered how Castle will fit in. Well, I am here to tell you that Castle will not be going anywhere.
Like Fox, Castle is simply too talented to be transferred or demoted. If Castle is the player we all want him to be, the Spurs would be insane to leave him off of the starting lineup.
Unlike Fox, Castle will fit considerably better in a possible three-guard lineup. With his ability to play off the ball and cut to the rim, the firestarter will continue to be significantly involved. Furthermore, his defensive skills and long 6’6″ stature will complement the other guards.
Regardless of lingering thoughts of trading Castle for a superstar, the young guard is here to stay.
There is no reason to dispute if he is a starter. He is on track to surpass his outstanding debut season and take the league by storm. Castle’s strengths will be highlighted in 2025-26, and he will cement his position as the finest player in the 2024 draft class.
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