The Irregular Trebuchet of Stephon Castle

[Pauleta14]

I will be so depressed and disappointed next year if both Sochan and Vassell are starting next year. I mean wtf would we even be doing as a franchise if that’s the plan going forward. Sochan is a high energy bench player. He just can’t be used on our team as a starter if we want to win. Vassell is just a brick layer. There’s nothing else to his game.

If we don’t make a fucking trade or swing for a big move this offseason then this team again won’t make the playoffs next year.

Objectively, the Spurs just standing pat and wasting the first 3 years of Wembys career is just stupid. Spurs fans like to bitch about contracts of other star players, their age, their supposed fit, which player is overpaid and whatever other nonsense. So they’d rather just stand pat instead of taking a risk. But the time to fuck up and go for it is when we have Wemby for 13 million a year. FFS he’s about to cost 50+ million a year going forward. If we pay a Jimmy Butler (not even saying I want him just using him as an example) 50 million this year and next year. We make the playoffs both years and get bounced in the second round both years or even just one year. Does that hurt us at all? What is the risk of even pulling the trigger for that trade?

If this was a bar, most of Spurstalk would be watching others take home girls while members like Splits would be saying nope elbow too pointy. And just go home alone with a nice bottle of lotion

:bobo

[spurraider21]

Well, Castle not being able to play PG would complicate everything. You can't really pair Castle with a PG who can't shoot and, ideally, you don't want to pair him with a defensive liability. Finding that player will be damn difficult. Just by looking at current mock drafts, player like Fears, Traoré, Saraf, Philon and Fland aren't that great fit with Castle.
pending FA's who come to mind include

Fred Vanvleet (player option)
Lonzo Ball

[itzsoweezee]

Castle has a lot of promise, but he has no business starting. I’d be surprised if he’s a net positive player for the season. I don’t see the benefit of forcing the issue with him. Let him come off the bench and learn how to play before trying to make him a major part of the team. They’ve made this mistake over and over again over the last few years and seem to have learned nothing.

[Pauleta14]

Castle has a lot of promise, but he has no business starting. I’d be surprised if he’s a net positive player for the season. I don’t see the benefit of forcing the issue with him. Let him come off the bench and learn how to play before trying to make him a major part of the team. They’ve made this mistake over and over again over the last few years and seem to have learned nothing.

I agree ideally he shouldn't be starting, the same way Sochan shouldn't have from he get go but win his place or Tre last season etc

The pb is that choices are made by default with this shitty roster, Castle is just less of a liability than the other choices

[CorrectCrusader]

Castle has a lot of promise, but he has no business starting. I’d be surprised if he’s a net positive player for the season. I don’t see the benefit of forcing the issue with him. Let him come off the bench and learn how to play before trying to make him a major part of the team. They’ve made this mistake over and over again over the last few years and seem to have learned nothing.

Castle is very much a plus player, even in the starting lineup.

[ambchang]

Castle is very much a plus player, even in the starting lineup.

Surprisingly he’s not.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/SAS/2025/lineups/

He has the lowest ws/48, ows, Dws, bpm, obpm and VORP amongst all the regulars, second worst in dbpm. Worst in ortg, and middle of the pack in drtg.

Of all the regulars he’s k my better than Vassell and KJ in pt different as a two man rotation with wemby.

Honestly I’m shocked as well but castle isn’t doing as well we all think he is. Yes he’s 19, he’s a rookie learning the toughest job in the league but let’s not let the shiny new toy syndrome take over for now.

I’m still pretty confident he’s going to be a good if not great player one day but he’s not there yet.

[dn0774]

He doesn't deserve to start yet clearly, problem is he plays so much better when starting than off the bench so idk lol

[BatManu20]

If Mitch starts Sochan again when he returns, we riot.

1880250974549520738

[quentin_compson]

I mean, it's not really surprising that Castle is playing better as a starter than with the bench unit, is it? As a starter, he gets more minutes with Wemby and Chris Paul.

[DAF86]

I need to see any kind of improvement on that jumpshot, tbh.

[dn0774]

I need to see any kind of improvement on that jumpshot, tbh.

Historically speaking, shooting improvements tend to happen in the off season. Time to tinker during the season is at a minimum. Shot selection is something that can be worked on in season with film/coaching (we saw Wemby get better at that as last season went along) but I actually mostly like Castle's shot selection, their results are just all over the place. I've seen him knock down a couple shots in a row and look like he is in a groove and then he airballs the next couple middies lol. All over the place.

[scott]

If Mitch starts Sochan again when he returns, we riot.

1880250974549520738

Someone else pointed this out the other day, that there seems to be a contingent of fans that Castle should start because Castle plays better with the starters. Kind of silly logic, since the Spurs' goal isn't to simply maximize Castle's output. The best metrics to track are how the team does with Castle starting versus not starting.

Personally, I think still think it should be Castle and Champ starting with Devin and Sochan off the bench (and Devin should definitely be in the closing lineup, and Sochan situationally). The Castle/Champ SL (+13.2 NETRTG) is about on par with the Dev/Sochan SL (+15.5 NETRTG), but both are better than the Vassell/Castle SL (+7.9 NETRTG). However, Devin and Jeremy off the bench VASTLY improves our bench unit (and tbh, I think Devin's best role would be as a 6th man, the the point where I think he could grow into a legit perennial 6MOY contender).

[Kevin]

Took a gander at Castle's jump shooting numbers in comparison to past Spurs projects that had questionable jumper and the data is pretty bleak.

Rookie Jump Shot Shooting %

Castle: 29%
DJM: 35%
SlowMo: 27%
Derrick White: 43% (had to use second year data because of small sample size)

Rookie 3PT Shooing %

Castle: 26%
DJM: 34%
SlowMo:27%
Derrick White: 33% (had to use second year data because of small sample size)

None of these guys turned into legit second scoring options of championship caliber teams despite better shooting than Castle at roughly the same point in their career's. Castle's realistic scoring ceiling is probably a fourth option on a contender. People are allowed to hope and dream for whatever they want but the odds look really long that Castle will develop into a top three scoring option on a contender.

[LeBowen]

Took a gander at Castle's jump shooting numbers in comparison to past Spurs projects that had questionable jumper and the data is pretty bleak.

Rookie Jump Shot Shooting %

Castle: 29%
DJM: 35%
SlowMo: 27%
Derrick White: 43% (had to use second year data because of small sample size)

Rookie 3PT Shooing %

Castle: 26%
DJM: 34%
SlowMo:27%
Derrick White: 33% (had to use second year data because of small sample size)

None of these guys turned into legit second scoring options of championship caliber teams despite better shooting than Castle at roughly the same point in their career's. Castle's realistic scoring ceiling is probably a fourth option on a contender. People are allowed to hope and dream for whatever they want but the odds look really long that Castle will develop into a top three scoring option on a contender.

You say you used second year data for Derrick, but you were fine using data for DJ?
DJ had 0.6 and 0.4 3pta in his rookie and sophmore seasons. Tore his ACL in a pre-season game before his third season, reworked his shot during a year long break.
DJ was at 26% on 0.4 attempts in his sophmore season.

SlowMo's first season with more than 1 3pta was his second season with Memphis.
Data for players with such low volume is irrelevant.

Castle's 26% is awful, but he's at 3.8 attempts, which is solid volume.
He'll surely get it up to ~33% in a few years, the question is will he ever be able to go above 36%?

It's easier to develop a bad shooter (Castle) than a non-shooter (DJ).

[Kevin]

You say you used second year data for Derrick, but you were fine using data for DJ?
DJ had 0.6 and 0.4 3pta in his rookie and sophmore seasons. Tore his ACL in a pre-season game before his third season, reworked his shot during a year long break.
DJ was at 26% on 0.4 attempts in his sophmore season.

SlowMo's first season with more than 1 3pta was his second season with Memphis.
Data for players with such low volume is irrelevant.

Castle's 26% is awful, but he's at 3.8 attempts, which is solid volume.
He'll surely get it up to ~33% in a few years, the question is will he ever be able to go above 36%?

It's easier to develop a bad shooter (Castle) than a non-shooter (DJ).

Not sure I would classify Castle as a shooter even if he willing to let it fly. Dreadful data. Its more likely Castle end up closer to wing equivalent Sochan than Derrick White at this point.

[LeBowen]

Not sure I would classify Castle as a shooter even if he willing to let it fly. Dreadful data. Its more likely Castle end up closer to wing equivalent Sochan than Derrick White at this point.

We can guesstimate all we want, but the fact is that Castle is way ahead of rookie/sophmore DJ because DJ didn't even look at the basket from outside the paint.

While we're at Derrick, he was at 29% on 5 attempts in 21-22 season before he got traded.
It took him a long time to become a good shooter.

[dn0774]

You say you used second year data for Derrick, but you were fine using data for DJ?
DJ had 0.6 and 0.4 3pta in his rookie and sophmore seasons. Tore his ACL in a pre-season game before his third season, reworked his shot during a year long break.
DJ was at 26% on 0.4 attempts in his sophmore season.

SlowMo's first season with more than 1 3pta was his second season with Memphis.
Data for players with such low volume is irrelevant.

Castle's 26% is awful, but he's at 3.8 attempts, which is solid volume.
He'll surely get it up to ~33% in a few years, the question is will he ever be able to go above 36%?

It's easier to develop a bad shooter (Castle) than a non-shooter (DJ).

Not to mention that of those 3 (DJM, White, Slomo) only Dejounte was a 1 and done. Hell, in Whites comparison season he was 24. Slomo is an interesting case, he has been all over the place with regards to 3 point shooting in his career. He shot 41% from 3 a couple seasons ago and followed it up with a 23% shooting season (admittedly lower volume) and this season is back up to 37%...

Obviously as Spurs fans we are going to take optimistic views of Castle's potential, but the shooting concerns are very real and the Spurs cant just count on time/reps to fix it. Hopefully Castle is willing to acknowledge the issue going into this summer after a season of data (he was in denial of the issue in training camp when asked about it by a reporter) and make adjustments. Steph being 20 and seemingly not requiring a complete tear down of his current shot bode somewhat well at least.

That being said, I also have very real doubts about our teams shot doctor(s?) because in a results driven league they aren't getting any.

[scott]

While I hope that Castle takes a Kawhi like developmental path, I'm not counting on it (and he's not started out on that path). However, I don't see anything to indicate he can't follow DJM's or Derrick's path. He's ahead of both starting out, but there is a long way to go.

Hopes are one thing, but we shouldn't be relying on Castle to save this roster from itself. Lots of upgrades still need to be made. Wemby is clearly untouchable, Castle is promising, Sochan right behind him, everyone else should be viewed as readily available.

https://i.postimg.cc/hGF6PQgD/castle-dev.png

[CGD]

Took a gander at Castle's jump shooting numbers in comparison to past Spurs projects that had questionable jumper and the data is pretty bleak.

Rookie Jump Shot Shooting %

Castle: 29%
DJM: 35%
SlowMo: 27%
Derrick White: 43% (had to use second year data because of small sample size)

Rookie 3PT Shooing %

Castle: 26%
DJM: 34%
SlowMo:27%
Derrick White: 33% (had to use second year data because of small sample size)

None of these guys turned into legit second scoring options of championship caliber teams despite better shooting than Castle at roughly the same point in their career's. Castle's realistic scoring ceiling is probably a fourth option on a contender. People are allowed to hope and dream for whatever they want but the odds look really long that Castle will develop into a top three scoring option on a contender.

In fairness Derrick was already a 4 year college player and SloMo I believe was a junior when drafted.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NF4AI6bW5GE

[Atl Spur]

Steph’s shooting/scoring will only get better. Overall, his game is nice but needs refinement ( to be expected from a rookie )!

[Raven]

another legitimately atrocious game from him, somebody needs to start explaining him he is supposed to be the next mike conley, not the next kirby bryant ffs

[scott]

another legitimately atrocious game from him, somebody needs to start explaining him he is supposed to be the next mike conley, not the next kirby bryant ffs

tell us more about how devin vassell is pretty darn good, consistently

[Raven]

tell us more about how devin vassell is pretty darn good, consistently

it is obvious, is it actually being discussed?

[TDMVPDPOY]

rather see castle chuck then wendy chucking the team out of momentum of the game....

he shouldnt be afraid to chuck under mitch, he wont get sub out with continuous poor decision making like if it was under popabitch

[LakerHater]

https://images4.imagebam.com/83/2e/d8/MEZ7R3S_o.gif

[LakerHater]

https://images4.imagebam.com/83/2e/d8/MEZ7R3S_o.gif
https://images4.imagebam.com/e4/07/96/MEZ7RB3_o.gif

[onechance87]

Looking unlikely that castle aint gonna be our futre pg.Not fast,Cant shoot,Average playmayer.The search must
go on.

[mudyez]

Looking unlikely that castle aint gonna be our futre pg.Not fast,Cant shoot,Average playmayer.The search must
go on.

Yeah, it's highly unlikely that he ain't gonna fail to not be our future pg.

[Pauleta14]

Looking unlikely that castle aint gonna be our futre pg.Not fast,Cant shoot,Average playmayer.The search must
go on.


Yeah, it's highly unlikely that he ain't gonna fail to not be our future pg.


:lol

(English isn't his mother tongue tbf :)

It's his 1st season, he's been moved/used at many positions and roles and still is one of or most important players regularly.

Let's wait and see with some stability and a proper NBA coach.

I still beleive highly in him, he's got something really special. Still a better shooter and scorer than Amen for perspective

[TekXX]

Yeah, it's highly unlikely that he ain't gonna fail to not be our future pg.


This isn't unlikely to not be never untrue.

[z0sa]

I would hold onto Castle. He's got game on both ends, but he's clearly hitting the rookie wall. His shooting just isn't there, and the turnovers are usually straight brain farts. He also has a big problem with getting right to the rim and getting blocked. He was turning those opportunities into free throws early in the season but nowadays it feels like he throws his hands up or shrugs at the refs like they need to help him avoid being blocked. Again, I think it's the rookie wall - he's sore, tired, and realizes playing with the best of the best night in and night out, the travel, etc are no joke. Not gonna get any easier with the RRT coming up soon, either. Hoping he (among others) finds himself on the road

[cutewizard]

Wear the Black

Overcome the Wall

Winter (RRT) is coming lol

[SupremeGuy]

Looking unlikely that castle aint gonna be our futre pg.Not fast,Cant shoot,Average playmayer.The search must
go on.Not sure if your grammar is on purpose... cause what?

Castle seems like he's the only dude playing sometimes.

[Atl Spur]

Looking unlikely that castle aint gonna be our futre pg.Not fast,Cant shoot,Average playmayer.The search must
go on.
Attention is a helluva drug:)

[spursparker9]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmA7xS3wccU

[spurraider21]

1884695335345221959

https://media1.tenor.com/m/Rzv3X3SeqeMAAAAd/price-of-the-brick-going-up-marlo.gif

[KingKev]

Great if he wins but damn some sht company

[John B]

1884695335345221959

https://media1.tenor.com/m/Rzv3X3SeqeMAAAAd/price-of-the-brick-going-up-marlo.gif

I think Mitch would keep Castle at SL now, and that should help his cause a lot. I think being at dunk contest, Rising Star, etc Castle should get even more in the spotlight.

[ambchang]

Man the draft living up to the hype.

[DAF86]

I think Mitch would keep Castle at SL now, and that should help his cause a lot. I think being at dunk contest, Rising Star, etc Castle should get even more in the spotlight.

Is Castle really on the dunk contest? I don't see him with the hops to do well there, tbh.

[intlspurshk]

His future contribution is probably like Derrick White in Boston, as long as SPURS get another cornerstone player in 2025 draft.

[Pauleta14]

His future contribution is probably like Derrick White in Boston, as long as SPURS get another cornerstone player in 2025 draft.

And he'd be so great at it!

When he starts accepting that's his future and takes the right shots, he'll become so valuable

I just said in another thread that I don't think we should include him in a Fox deal, he's one of the rare true talent of the roster but he's paying the price of it as much as Wemby.

Give him some proper coaching, a team that can spread the floor and convince him to simplify his game. It's not that much.

[Obstructed_View]

:lol

(English isn't his mother tongue tbf :)

It's his 1st season, he's been moved/used at many positions and roles and still is one of or most important players regularly.

Let's wait and see with some stability and a proper NBA coach.

I still beleive highly in him, he's got something really special. Still a better shooter and scorer than Amen for perspective

What language punctuates like that?

[BatManu20]

1884980136858071484

[tim_duncan_fan]

Castle fanboys check in.

Bruh went 3-6 from three tonight. That's not a pattern, but it's something.

20, 8reb, 6ast, 0 to. Lessfuckinggo!

[Knoxxx]

If he could finish a single layup or dunk he’d be a borderline all star! Nice to see him add some REBS and AST this game.

[lebomb]

I would not include him in any trade for fox. Vassel or Keldon I would be OK with.

[DAF86]

It seems like his jumpshooting problems come from his legs. He's always doing some different weird shit with them.

[Atl Spur]

It seems like his jumpshooting problems come from his legs. He's always doing some different weird shit with them.

I noticed that on the air ball too!

[PhantomDashCam]

Love my guy Steph but if he was in the dunk contest against these two, he’s coming a distant third.


https://youtu.be/msKD9FxYqzA?si=c5e3aUX6hEhB4eSj

[RC_Drunkford]

I hope he works out with Lethal Shooter in the offseason. He's one of the best shooting coaches in the game and was in Paris at the games last week. That's the guy who helped a lot of All-Stars with their shot, also Derrick White when he joined the Celtics.

[onechance87]

I hope he works out with Lethal Shooter in the offseason. He's one of the best shooting coaches in the game and was in Paris at the games last week. That's the guy who helped a lot of All-Stars with their shot, also Derrick White when he joined the Celtics.

whats his name...just curious about it.

[scott]

I hope he works out with Lethal Shooter in the offseason. He's one of the best shooting coaches in the game and was in Paris at the games last week. That's the guy who helped a lot of All-Stars with their shot, also Derrick White when he joined the Celtics.

Who is this guy? Why hasn't a team hired him?

[RC_Drunkford]

Who is this guy? Why hasn't a team hired him?

Chris Matthews. Probably the most famous shooting coach in the game. I assume he doesn‘t want to work for a franchise otherwise I‘d think plenty of teams would hire him. He was in Paris all week and also with Wemby, Jeremy and Sidy at the celebrity game. I really hope some of our guys work with him.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k41M5UebojY

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQZIL_cf1z4

[scott]

Oh right on, I've seen some of his viral videos

[cutewizard]

https://motociclismo.pt/en/san-antonio-spurs-guard-their-treasure-stephon-castle-in-the-tumultuous-trade-storm-with-deaaron-fox/

[spursistan]

Castle might already be better player than Vassell, tbh.

[DAF86]

One thing's for sure: this kid can't go back to the bench. I don't know how are they thinking to make room for Fox, but Castle must remain in the starting 5.

[BatManu20]

Pretty obvious that Castle is a future star. Kid just has that "it" factor. Just turned 20 recently. Gonna be dam good for us once that jumper starts to fall more consistently. He's already shooting it considerably better over the past 10 games or so. Excited for his future.

[Ditty]

He needs to start alongside Fox if that's going to be your backcourt of the future.

Thanks CP3 for helping us win a few games but you need to come off the bench or request a trade to a contender.

[Knoxxx]

I hope he works out with Lethal Shooter in the offseason. He's one of the best shooting coaches in the game and was in Paris at the games last week. That's the guy who helped a lot of All-Stars with their shot, also Derrick White when he joined the Celtics.

Interesting, I was not unhappy when D White was dealt because at the time I think he was barely a 30% 3 PT shooter if that.

[spursparker9]

Castle might average 25 if he is on Wizards

[gilmor2002]

Castle might already be better player than Vassell, tbh.

I just hated the vibes on Vassell.. seems like he got mental issues when the game is on the line and the way he applauded every successful move he did.. like he is the me-type of player. TP got a bit of that.. but TP is a whole lot better play maker than Vassell.

[BatManu20]

1886640705222652122

[ffadicted]

1886640705222652122

I don't even care if it makes sense, but pls roll with Fox CP3 Castle instead of Fox CP3 Vassell

[DAF86]

If they send him back to the bench, they would be costing him RoY. We aren't winning shit this season and if Fox/Castle is suspossed to be the backcourt of the future, just start working on it now.

Any way you look at it, it doesn't make sense to send him back to the bench.

[BatManu20]

They should be having a conversation with CP3 right now and letting him know that they’re going to start Fox, Castle and Vassell moving forward and that if he has a problem with that, then they’re happy to try and trade him to a contender in the next 2 days. Benching Castle right now when he’s playing his best ball of the season would be really dumb. But I fully expect it to happen.

[Ice009]

I'd like to try starting all three, but if that doesn't work, then maybe CP3 needs to go to the bench. I truly do thank him for all he's done, but IMO Castle and obviously now Fox take priority over him at his current age.

[RC_Drunkford]

CP3 already looking out for Steph off the court too

1886814748664008786

[RC_Drunkford]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz5n7OvkaTA

[RC_Drunkford]

1886853433698722191

[NASpurs]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz5n7OvkaTA

Wait ... Castle lives in the Eastside? Uh oh

[Ice009]

Wait ... Castle lives in the Eastside? Uh oh

What does that mean? I'm not from the US, so no idea what that means.

Also, congrats to Steph for getting WC Rookie of the Month.

[NASpurs]

What does that mean?

I mean it could be a "fake" prop house and he was just waiting there for CP3. Doesnt mean he lives there.

The Eastside is one of the ghetto sides of SA although it's being developed nicely on some spots.

[BatManu20]

Congrats to the Rook. Well-deserved. If the Spurs bench him over CP3 they're morons.

1886853250076332233

[Ice009]

I mean it could be a "fake" prop house and he was just waiting there for CP3. Doesnt mean he lives there.

The Eastside is one of the ghetto sides of SA although it's being developed nicely on some spots.

Oh, right, thanks. I didn't know if it was a good or bad thing, or what you meant by it as I'm not in the US, so I was genuinely curious.

[z0sa]

Grew up on the southeast side. Only a few blocks over from the east side proper bridges/railroad tracks. You don't want to wander around over there if you value your belongings, though during the day there's a few less crackheads.

Last time I stopped there at night, I went to a spurs game and didn't realize I was literally on E. Had to stop or risk being completely stranded. I was acosted in seconds by nightwalkers and guys trying to sell me red box DVDs.

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/Z91-Eov0180?si=Y8Q43rfmRMJC7n4Y

[Knoxxx]

https://youtu.be/Z91-Eov0180?si=Y8Q43rfmRMJC7n4Y

The 1:20 mark is epic. Castle runs right in to a perfectly positioned defender in the lane and makes it look like he's being fouled when it's actually him harassing the defender. He's the master of drawing nuisance fouls on drives, just needs to finish those drives more consistently.

[DAF86]

1887301905702945157

[Pauleta14]

Stephon needs to take it as a challenge and create a headache for Mitch when he's associated with Fox

He needs to make it obvious for all he needs to start

[RC_Drunkford]

so Mark Jones mentioned that while the Spurs were stuck in LA, Castle got in the gym with his coach and put up 1000s of shots to work on his jumper. Since then he's shooting 35.7% from 3 and 75% from the line.

[LeBowen]

Tbh, my biggest issue with him are those bad misses on layup attempts.
Shooting is obviously improving, but last night he had too many of those random layups that don't even hit the rim.
Obviously can't make them all, but some of those misses were just ugly.

[Dejounte]

Tbh, my biggest issue with him are those bad misses on layup attempts.
Shooting is obviously improving, but last night he had too many of those random layups that don't even hit the rim.
Obviously can't make them all, but some of those misses were just ugly.

He’s got the Wesley-itis. Or maybe it’s the Bassey-itis

[exstatic]

Tbh, my biggest issue with him are those bad misses on layup attempts.
Shooting is obviously improving, but last night he had too many of those random layups that don't even hit the rim.
Obviously can't make them all, but some of those misses were just ugly.

He muffed something on defense last night, too. I think it was early in the 4th. CP was forced to foul on a drive, and he barked at Castle pretty hard. He got pulled at the next dead ball. People forget that for all of his skills, some advanced for a rookie,he still muffs plays and makes dumb mistakes.

[cutewizard]

Excited for his sophomore season

[Knoxxx]

He muffed something on defense last night, too. I think it was early in the 4th. CP was forced to foul on a drive, and he barked at Castle pretty hard. He got pulled at the next dead ball. People forget that for all of his skills, some advanced for a rookie,he still muffs plays and makes dumb mistakes.

Castle does tons of dumb stuff and his defense is currently way overrated. But, that is why he needs to be playing, to work through it. CP 3 + Fox for 22 assists is overkill. Plus we are actually trying to lose, not win. Retarding Castle's development to try and win more games now is idiotic.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Shot 60% from 3 tonight with 3 makes.

Keeping fixing that trebuchet, my guy. Becoming one of my favorite players.

[spursistan]

We actually drafted the best player in the draft with the 4th pick :lol :tu

[exstatic]

He had a great offensive game. Sean and Jacob were saying that Fox told him he was as much of a reason he came here as Wemby.

OK, now time for the brickbat. He blew the coverage on the LaMelo kick out for the go ahead game winning 3.

[100%duncan]

Steph has that alpha gene tbh

[Knoxxx]

Tank goodness he had this 33 point game AFTER the trade!!!

[Knoxxx]

He had a great offensive game. Sean and Jacob were saying that Fox told him he was as much of a reason he came here as Wemby.

OK, now time for the brickbat. He blew the coverage on the LaMelo kick out for the go ahead game winning 3.

Tank goodness he blew the cover for the game losing play and a much needed L. Very clutch!!!

[tim_duncan_fan]

He had a great offensive game. Sean and Jacob were saying that Fox told him he was as much of a reason he came here as Wemby.

OK, now time for the brickbat. He blew the coverage on the LaMelo kick out for the go ahead game winning 3.

Devastating. He is supposed to be a good defender.


Luckily, he seems to be the type who learns, changes, evolves.

[Pauleta14]

Devastating. He is supposed to be a good defender.


Luckily, he seems to be the type who learns, changes, evolves.

Not really, it would've been for anyone else but it's a necessary mistake for Castle, he needs to got through those to learn.

He's the only one I'm fine with whatever mistakes he makes, like I was for Wemby last season.

[spurs10]

He had a great offensive game. Sean and Jacob were saying that Fox told him he was as much of a reason he came here as Wemby.

OK, now time for the brickbat. He blew the coverage on the LaMelo kick out for the go ahead game winning 3. Yeah he made a mistake. We are curb stomped in this game without him. He made a gamble that didn't pay off.

[exstatic]

Yeah he made a mistake. We are curb stomped in this game without him. He made a gamble that didn't pay off.

It wasn’t even a gamble. There were already 3 guys at the rim/restricted area. He just kind of floated in closer, and lost his man.

[Ice009]

He had a great offensive game. Sean and Jacob were saying that Fox told him he was as much of a reason he came here as Wemby.

OK, now time for the brickbat. He blew the coverage on the LaMelo kick out for the go ahead game winning 3.

And if not for Steph, Spurs get blown out by one of the worst teams in the league who were also short handed. Yeah, he fucked up (I'll call him out, it was a stupid mistake that didn't need to happen), but Spurs get smashed without him. As 100%Duncan said in the game thread, Steph's bought the Spurs back in games this season that would have been blowout loses. He's helped give them chances is some games that they wouldn't have had. They may not have one many of those games, but that is not the point. Spurs are just not very good as he's one of our top 3 players IMO.

[spurs10]

And if not for Steph, Spurs get blown out by one of the worst teams in the league who were also short handed. Yeah, he fucked up (I'll call him out, it was a stupid mistake that didn't need to happen), but Spurs get smashed without him. As 100%Duncan said in the game thread, Steph's bought the Spurs back in games this season that would have been blowout loses. He's helped give them chances is some games that they wouldn't have had. They may not have one many of those games, but that is not the point. Spurs are just not very good as he's one of our top 3 players IMO. This

[lefty]

:lol and some people here were worried about some dude named Connect

[slick'81]

Castle was a tremendous pick for San Antonio. Hell learn from tonight and continue to improve

[tim_duncan_fan]

So glad they didn't trade this guy. I really wasn't sure that they had him off-limits.

[exstatic]

And if not for Steph, Spurs get blown out by one of the worst teams in the league who were also short handed. Yeah, he fucked up (I'll call him out, it was a stupid mistake that didn't need to happen), but Spurs get smashed without him. As 100%Duncan said in the game thread, Steph's bought the Spurs back in games this season that would have been blowout loses. He's helped give them chances is some games that they wouldn't have had. They may not have one many of those games, but that is not the point. Spurs are just not very good as he's one of our top 3 players IMO.

I almost would rather they didn’t come back last night. Mitch would have pulled the plug late third or early fourth, the ultimate result would have been the same, an L, but we might have had some energy left for tonight’s game against Orlando.

[Ice009]

I almost would rather they didn’t come back last night. Mitch would have pulled the plug late third or early fourth, the ultimate result would have been the same, an L, but we might have had some energy left for tonight’s game against Orlando.

OK, fair point. Hopefully they have energy left tonight, but if not, I'd still rather have tried to win last night than given up. Oh well, sucks they lost.

[Atl Spur]

Every experience, good or bad , aids in his development. It’s just growing pains people; I rather him make this mistake now vs in an nba finals series ( which we’ve seen numerous players do ). If nothing else, these boys are exciting to watch now!

[Mr. Body]

Castle was the only good player and the only player who looked like he wanted to win for most of the game. He looks like he's getting steamed at losses.

[Sugus]

Castle was the only good player and the only player who looked like he wanted to win for most of the game. He looks like he's getting steamed at losses.

That's funny. I was just being told in the game thread that it's ridiculous to expect players to be fired up after tough losses unless they're on a championship caliber team. Who would've thought?

[spursparker9]

Castle was the only good player and the only player who looked like he wanted to win for most of the game. He looks like he's getting steamed at losses.

Well...can't blame him. Afterall he was a NCAA champion just last year and now is on a losing team struggling to get into play-in.

[scott]

He had a great offensive game. Sean and Jacob were saying that Fox told him he was as much of a reason he came here as Wemby.

OK, now time for the brickbat. He blew the coverage on the LaMelo kick out for the go ahead game winning 3.

Was thinking about that play a little bit and I think Castle has shown he's smart and has a high BBIQ for the big brain move there, which would have been to move to close out the passing lane as soon as Melo got past Sochan. We saw Donte D do this against us in that game where Sochan shot the attempted 3p game winner. Don't need to get to the man there, just need to close off the passing lane. Even generating a deflection or a pass that required Bridges to make a tougher catch might have been the difference.

This rook will learn that though.

[Mugen]

Alpha Dog Castle tbh, best part of the season.

[cutewizard]

Championship pedigree

[Knoxxx]

Castle TS% above 50% for first time this season!

FG%: 41
3PT: 28
FT: 73
TS: 51

THIS is what it looks like when Castle stops missing every bunny near the basket. Happy learned to putt!!!

[Knoxxx]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlKhRclZoVg

[tim_duncan_fan]

One big thing about this guy that I think he has over everyone else on the roster, by far, except CP3 on his better days, is that for better or worse, he knows exactly what he wants to do with the ball. If Castle has it, you already know he is trying to "touch paint," as he puts it. Actually, I guess Keldon has that too, but it seems that by Castle's Year 5, he is going to be way ahead of where Keldon has seemed to max out.

[Mr. Body]

The only good player on the team.

[DAF86]

_jH9M_RlNx0?si=VoyKpnNFumK4X96y

[mystargtr34]

Best player on the team already tbh.

[tim_duncan_fan]

The only good player on the team.


Best player on the team already tbh.

Are yall forgetting someone or nah?

[SpursGenius]

should start

[slick'81]

Mitch the bitch johnson needs pop to pull his strings

[BatManu20]

Kid's game is mature beyond his years.

1889345146396745990

[Knoxxx]

This is one grown ass man at age 20! Road announcers also like his stoic demeanor,
making him look even more bad ass.

[Pauleta14]

A couple weeks ago a lot of you were ready to put Castle in a trade PACKAGE (:lol not even straight swap) for Amen...

I said I would never and got laughed at.

Would you guys still do it?

IMO his ceiling is far higher than Amen's

[MannyIsGod]

A couple weeks ago a lot of you were ready to put Castle in a trade PACKAGE (:lol not even straight swap) for Amen...

I said I would never and got laughed at.

Would you guys still do it?

IMO his ceiling is far higher than Amen's

STFU. "A lot of" nothing wanted to trade Castle. You're not some genius becuase you didn't want to trade Castle. That's the broad consensus here.

Hope you didn't blow out your back trying to suck your own dick there.

[Gagnrath]

STFU. "A lot of" nothing wanted to trade Castle. You're not some genius becuase you didn't want to trade Castle. That's the broad consensus here.

Hope you didn't blow out your back trying to suck your own dick there.
I have been off and on in intensity and attention here all year, I know quite a few of us (myself included) were willing to include Castle in part of a move for Fox, it was with reservations... Really like him, hope we don't have to but if it pushes the trade to where Sac it willing we do it. Type of move I don't really remember anyone being all that into a move for Amen....There was some discussion but nothing that sounded like it was a strong or widely held opinion.

[Pauleta14]

STFU. "A lot of" nothing wanted to trade Castle. You're not some genius becuase you didn't want to trade Castle. That's the broad consensus here.

Hope you didn't blow out your back trying to suck your own dick there.

Is it just convenient to forget the part when Amen was swap with Castle or are you just struggling with reading?

You never disapoint :lol

[ambchang]

My recollection was amen for sochan which is a no brainer for us. I’d still do amen for castle straight up. Amen with a shot is a superstar level player, castle with a shot is an all star.

Granted castles shot seems to be much easier to fix.

Amen is just a next level athlete with a good basketball sense.

[DAF86]

xiAlUe2_9ao?si=QS2otE3Exlt-5Rjt

[spurraider21]

castle has a nice chance to get a good amount of national spotlight this weekend

people dont usually care about the rising stars challenge, but the winning rising stars team also gets a birth into the actual all star game/tournament, so he'd be able to face off against full blown all star teams

and of course, the dunk contest (even though im skeptical he has enough lift to do well in this, he might pull some shenanigans with wemby as a prop to help)

[Ice009]

castle has a nice chance to get a good amount of national spotlight this weekend

people dont usually care about the rising stars challenge, but the winning rising stars team also gets a birth into the actual all star game/tournament, so he'd be able to face off against full blown all star teams

and of course, the dunk contest (even though im skeptical he has enough lift to do well in this, he might pull some shenanigans with wemby as a prop to help)

Man, the dunk comp is the other thing I am iffy on. I am happy with everything else he's done. I hope he doesn't do poorly in it. I should have more confidence in him if he's entered it willingly as he must think he'll do well (which is good), but I don't want him to do bad.

[Pauleta14]

Can't predict the future, but at the same stage of their career, Castle shows more promises than Amen. We'll see how Castle evolves in year 2...

Short term memory is striking ppl again

[Mr. Body]

Amen looks really freaking good. He is two full years older than Stephon. But just let them be their own players.

[Mr. Body]

Meanwhile, there's plenty of time for him to develop in years to come, but with FVV out and Jalen Green sucking outright, there was a chance for Reed to shine against the Warriors, and...

Reed Sheppard 05:09 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -7

[dn0774]

Amen looks really freaking good. He is two full years older than Stephon. But just let them be their own players.

Ausar starting to round into form too after having his career sidetracked with the blood clots last season, happy to see him playing well.

[RC_Drunkford]

Man, the dunk comp is the other thing I am iffy on. I am happy with everything else he's done. I hope he doesn't do poorly in it. I should have more confidence in him if he's entered it willingly as he must think he'll do well (which is good), but I don't want him to do bad.

the Spurs are extra secretive when it comes to Castle‘s dunks. They told reporters not to leak anything nor write articles about it. So he definitely got some things prepared.

[cutewizard]

So lucky of us to have him

Back to back ROY

What kind of multiverse event should open up so that we can have a top four pick, I wonder ......

Basketball fans around the world deserve a Spurs renaissance.....

But we must get lucky first

So nice to dream guys

[cutewizard]

One thing I noticed about Stephon is.....

After a miscue, he pauses on the floor....couple of seconds?

Better that he just goes with the flow and get back on defense quickly

Interested to know your opinions on this habit of his guys.

[spursparker9]

One thing I noticed about Stephon is.....

After a miscue, he pauses on the floor....couple of seconds?

Better that he just goes with the flow and get back on defense quickly

Interested to know your opinions on this habit of his guys.

Probably looking at the refs or look to go for steal

[exstatic]

Meanwhile, there's plenty of time for him to develop in years to come, but with FVV out and Jalen Green sucking outright, there was a chance for Reed to shine against the Warriors, and...

Reed Sheppard 05:09 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -7

OMG, an abbreviated Tony Snell cardio.

[spursistan]

Stephon Castle wants to be great and a future star in this league. He is the putting the necessary grind and it's starting to pay off.

A Kawhi-esque transformation where he would blow off all projected ceilings for him wouldn't be much of shock for me. .

https://x.com/SMarieJohn/status/1889366386729951689
https://x.com/PaulGarciaNBA/status/1890274270082920930

[RC_Drunkford]

Stephon Castle wants to be great and a future star in this league. He is the putting the necessary grind and it's starting to pay off.

A Kawhi-esque transformation where he would blow off all projected ceilings for him wouldn't be much of shock for me. .

https://x.com/SMarieJohn/status/1889366386729951689
https://x.com/PaulGarciaNBA/status/1890274270082920930

I've been saying this. Whoever his shooting coach is, he's better than Jimmy Baron.

[Ice009]

Excellent. Great to hear. Steph already had a bit of a feel for shooting. That break in LA was put to very productive use. I love the work he's putting in, and that it's also paying off.

[NASpurs]

Imagine you have to go get a shooting coach because the one on the team sucks. I never remembered hearing someone hiring a shooting coach while Chip was here.

[dn0774]

Imagine you have to go get a shooting coach because the one on the team sucks. I never remembered hearing someone hiring a shooting coach while Chip was here.

Yea not exactly a bullet point on Jimmy's resume (which he should be updating if results mattered in the Spurs org these days). Makes me wonder if Castle was working with Jimmy earlier in the season and then brought in his own guys later on or was it a different sequence of events? Either way, great to see Castle getting his shot to fall of late. We are still in small sample size territory, but I am an optimist with everything regarding Castle because he shows a maturity way beyond a 20 year old and doesn't appear to be afraid to put in the work to become the player he wants to be.

[vy65]

Dunno what it is exactly, but this dude reminds me of Manu. He just seems to have that intangible ability of knowing how to win.

[daslicer]

Dunno what it is exactly, but this dude reminds me of Manu. He just seems to have that intangible ability of knowing how to win.

I was thinking the same thing when I was courtside at the Hornets-Spurs game last week. What made me really think of Manu when watching him play was his ability to get to the hole doing the Euro Step which looked very similar to Manu's Euro Step. His athleticism and his ability to dunk on guys is very deceptive just like Manu's dunking ability.

[Knoxxx]

Castle also has some Tim Duncan in him, doesn’t use any more athleticism than he has to. Of course the stoicism. Once I got used to his style and he started to convert shots and impose his will DANGGGGGGG

[tim_duncan_fan]

Honestly, people who make it to the league out of Uconn tend to know how to hoop for real, going back probably over 20 years. We should maybe be less surprised by Castle.

Edit: Actually, I may be overstating Uconn's output a bit.

[Knoxxx]

I think what we are surprised with is how quickly his offense is whipping into shape and what a physical bully he is.

And that passing, man he finds the right guy anywhere on the court and whips a perfect pass to them in a millisecond. But the way he controls the pace and uses perfect footwork too is uncanny enabling him to extend plays and then he just seems to know exactly where everyone is.

Now for the record, once I figured out our options at the 4 pick I thought he was our best option. But nobody knew we were getting this. I did say if he learned to shoot at all he could be an all star, but that was before I had any idea about his footwork and passing.

Safe to say, he has a strong chance to be an all star possibly for many years and our legit #2 star.

Queue the horrid shooting slump…

[Gibbz]

And that passing, man he finds the right guy anywhere on the court and whips a perfect pass to them in a millisecond.

He whipped one or two to corner shooters in his games tonight that looked just like De'Aaron passes.

[Seventyniner]

I love how Castle uses every step he legally can. Not that other players don't, but Castle's decel/hesi makes it look like he's taking more steps than he should be able to because they're slower and not always in a straight line. That last assist was a good example.

It takes some crazy leg strength to slow down like that and change directions.

[Knoxxx]

He whipped one or two to corner shooters in his games tonight that looked just like De'Aaron passes.

Well I was hoping for the reverse jinx on my shooting slump comment but the beauty of his game is if his shot isn’t falling he can still impact the game. He showing that he can get into the lane at will and is masterful at drawing annoying fouls on the other team. But you can also see he’s working on all phases of his game including midrange and the 3 ball.

He’s really came of age during the road trip, though of course he’s been superb for an entire month. The fit with Fox is great and in the near term they make excellent co #2s, we are really set now in the backcourt. Just have to concentrate all our efforts on getting more help in the front court.

[BatManu20]

1890620679290052871

1890619707088077258

[Mr. Body]

Man, that would have been a disaster for the league if the G-League team got into the actual All-Star event.

[SpursGenius]

Castle gonna be special

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/KP81IusqNHI?si=s8QrZurucONSkwin

[cutewizard]

He is the real deal

[cutewizard]

Guys

Any idea who is the shooting coach/coaches of Castle?

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/tb2tbSJndhw?si=r1uGwL4imfv-NLvf

[timtonymanu]

Castle’s stats inflate when he doesn’t have to play with bums like Keldon Johnson and Zach Collins lol.

[timtonymanu]

Imagine you have to go get a shooting coach because the one on the team sucks. I never remembered hearing someone hiring a shooting coach while Chip was here.

Nephew would have been Kidd Gilchrist if Jimmy Baron was his shooting coach.

[RC_Drunkford]

1890599811407311306

1890621755724587275

[Atl Spur]

Nice start

[widowmaker]

Castle’s stats inflate when he doesn’t have to play with bums like Keldon Johnson and Zach Collins lol.


You left a bum out, devin vassell

[Mr. Body]

1890599811407311306

1890621755724587275

Yeah once he put the second game on his back with the scoring to get them back in it after the game winner the first game, there was no contest.

[CGD]

Wonder who George Felton has is eye on this year?

[Knoxxx]

While offloading a Vassell or KJ sounds good, it may also be worth seeing what coaching and the duo of Fox/Castle fully taking over the backcourt can do to elevate other players. Right now we are still fiddling around with interim coaching and CP3 running his clock out at as starting PG.

[Tyronn Lue]

Castle be special
better

[Gandalf]

While offloading a Vassell or KJ sounds good, it may also be worth seeing what coaching and the duo of Fox/Castle fully taking over the backcourt can do to elevate other players. Right now we are still fiddling around with interim coaching and CP3 running his clock out at as starting PG.

Yeah, I’d really like to see how Vassel does as the fourth player after that group. I think he might improve a good bit. If we can’t get a good forward or center in the draft, we may need to see if we can trade for one with Keldon’s contract and some other assets.

[BatManu20]

Coachable and doesn't get phased. Just like Timmy. He's "over himself."

1890649043669287232

[Knoxxx]

He was born to be a Spur, just like Wemby!!!

[exstatic]

Nephew would have been Kidd Gilchrist if Jimmy Baron was his shooting coach.

Nah, but he probably would have topped out as Jimmy Butler, a poor shooting scoring wing with D, and he probably makes a LOT less money.

If you had ever seen MKG’s shot you wouldn’t have made this comparison. The form made Sochan look like Steph Curry.

[Uriel]

How would you guys rank Castle in relation to Flagg, Harper, Bailey, and Edgecombe today?

[exstatic]

How would you guys rank Castle in relation to Flagg, Harper, Bailey, and Edgecombe today?

If you’re talking about prospect Castle, probably behind only Flagg and Harper. It’s close with Edgecombe, but the on ball creation gives Steph the edge. Not a huge Bailey fan. He’s not any kind of secondary creator, and doesn’t defend, and we already have enough defensive deficit players on this squad.

Flagg
Harper
Castle
Edgecombe
Bailey

[lefty]

https://x.com/realpjhoops/status/1890617121161224429

[KingKev]

“I’m mic’d up stay away from me”

This how that young fella thinks while live on the big stage.

[ginobilized]

Castle really looks like a 3rd yr player amongst his rookie contemporaries. Tough, talented and without an ounce of entitlement.
It's really cool to see him develop. There will come a day when the coaches have to give him his due. His ability to handle things so well might be part of the reason he's been on the bench.

[Mugen]

If you’re talking about prospect Castle, probably behind only Flagg and Harper. It’s close with Edgecombe, but the on ball creation gives Steph the edge. Not a huge Bailey fan. He’s not any kind of secondary creator, and doesn’t defend, and we already have enough defensive deficit players on this squad.

Flagg
Harper
Castle
Edgecombe
Bailey

If Castle was coming out in the '25 draft instead of '24, he'd be pretty firmly behind all 4 of those guys as a prospect.

If you're factoring in how he's looked against NBA level talent for 50 games then I could see the case for him being ranked ahead of Edgecombe. But in theoretical upside, those 3 pretty easily clear Steph still.

This is coming from somebody who's pretty high on Castle tbh.

[exstatic]

If Castle was coming out in the '25 draft instead of '24, he'd be pretty firmly behind all 4 of those guys as a prospect.

If you're factoring in how he's looked against NBA level talent for 50 games then I could see the case for him being ranked ahead of Edgecombe. But in theoretical upside, those 3 pretty easily clear Steph still.

This is coming from somebody who's pretty high on Castle tbh.

My thought was that he lacked ONLY a consistent jumper, and that everything else was there, paint penetration and scoring, passing, and monster defense. Bailey, for example, lacks defense, consistent finishing, and any creation for others at all. I would have him clearly behind Castle as a prospect, and will get ahead of the pack in seeing him as this draft’s Cam Reddish, the guy most likely to bust. High ceiling, but treacherously low floor.

[mo7888]

How would you guys rank Castle in relation to Flagg, Harper, Bailey, and Edgecombe today?

As a prospect he's behind them all, although I'd probably put him ahead of Bailey on my board.

Eta: When I say he's behind them all I'm referring to how most teams would rank them.

[polandprzem]

When I said Castle should start instead of cp3 who was the guy to say it was a bad idea. There were few here.

[RC_Drunkford]

this guy is taking over All-Star weekend by himself. He's been the talk of the town so far.

[tim_duncan_fan]

this guy is taking over All-Star weekend by himself. He's been the talk of the town so far.

He's the new "the Spurs have done it again." Haven't had one of those in a while.

[CGD]

https://x.com/realpjhoops/status/1890617121161224429

When did Kyle Anderson join the coaching staff?

[Sugus]

The past two days have been amazing exposure for Castle.

The NBA is not just about "being good". Peer (and referee) acknowledgment has as large an impact as your actual performance.


Having had a great dunk contest showing is putting his name on everyone's minds. Great things for the future, and the ROY is now his to lose.

[ginobilized]

Castle's composure is off the charts for a 20yr old rookie. I wouldn't doubt that he rises to the occasion yet again tonight against Shaq's team.
He's a killer. My gut says that he will take some big steps during his first 2 off-seasons. The Spurs need to wake the fuck up and give him more minutes.
I'd hate to lose him.

[NASpurs]

He's the new "the Spurs have done it again." Haven't had one of those in a while.

I feel like he was the consensus 4th pick. I kept watching mock draft videos and websites and it seemed like he was always there being chosen at 4.

I do wonder what the Spurs would've done if the choice was between Reed and Castle at 4 though. Thank God the Rockets took Reed though so I don't have to wonder.

But yes I know, Castle was being scouted by the Spurs a long time ago

[Uriel]

I feel like he was the consensus 4th pick. I kept watching mock draft videos and websites and it seemed like he was always there being chosen at 4.

I do wonder what the Spurs would've done if the choice was between Reed and Castle at 4 though. Thank God the Rockets took Reed though so I don't have to wonder.

But yes I know, Castle was being scouted by the Spurs a long time ago
The Spurs would've taken Reed, if timvp is to be believed.

[Knoxxx]

Castle's composure is off the charts for a 20yr old rookie. I wouldn't doubt that he rises to the occasion yet again tonight against Shaq's team.
He's a killer. My gut says that he will take some big steps during his first 2 off-seasons. The Spurs need to wake the fuck up and give him more minutes.
I'd hate to lose him.

Come back from the ledge he’s smart enough to understand the concept of soft tanking and humble enough to let CP3 complete his swan song. Next year is about winning aka CASTLE TIME!!!

[Knoxxx]

The Spurs would've taken Reed, if timvp is to be believed.

We needed a PG and shooting badly. That’s why Sheppard was on our radar, in addition to the fact he was ranked 3 v Castle ranked 4. Thankfully the Rockets were dumb enough to stick with that order!

[Obstructed_View]

Is Sheppard a bad player or is he buried on a good team? I love Castle, but I'm not sure Reed is bad.

[Knoxxx]

Is Sheppard a bad player or is he buried on a good team? I love Castle, but I'm not sure Reed is bad.

He’s a combo guard, meaning not a pure PG or strong playmaker, who is 6’2” with a 6’3” wingspan buried on a deep roster. If we had to send our 3 or 4 overall pick to the G league people would be losing it. BUST ALERT

[Obstructed_View]

He’s a combo guard, meaning not a pure PG or strong playmaker, who is 6’2” with a 6’3” wingspan buried on a deep roster. If we had to send our 3 or 4 overall pick to the G league people would be losing it. BUST ALERT
The Spurs have picked a body type for the last decade. It would have been sad if their departure from that had cost them Castle.

[Tyronn Lue]

https://x.com/realpjhoops/status/1890617121161224429
Mitch thinks that's Vassell

[cutewizard]

Our boy hunts!

We should call him the Predator!

[cutewizard]

I'm just happy we have a team to root for guys

[cutewizard]

Rising Stars MV P this year....

ROY

Hopefully All Defense next year

[ismael-robert]

He might win roy but not confident he would have without mccain going down. Surprised we haven't seen the he's really 25 conspiracies yet

[Mr. Body]

Is Sheppard a bad player or is he buried on a good team? I love Castle, but I'm not sure Reed is bad.

He's a slow shooting guard with poor handles and no self creation. He's a very good spot up shooter, or was in college. Has excellent hands and good positioning but very poor man defense, just too small, dies on screens and gets ragdolled by bigger players which is most everyone.

The better prospect on Kentucky was always Dillingham imo and even he has big defensive problems.

I'm not surprised to see Sheppard struggle.

[RC_Drunkford]

Sheppard is Patty Mills

[mystargtr34]

Sheppard is Patty Mills

Cross between Paddy and Fredette

[Ocotillo]

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/the-biggest-winners-and-losers-from-nba-all-star-weekend/ar-AA1zcWY2?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=HCTS&cvid=458252fa60b1485cc24a8715528ef0bb&ei=10

From a Washington Post writer:


Stephon Castle (winner)
Castle, the No. 4 pick by the Spurs in last year’s draft, was a busy man.

On Friday, his team won the Rising Stars Challenge. On Saturday, he finished second to McClung in the dunk contest and nearly forced a dunk-off with two incredibly impressive efforts in the final round. On Sunday, he got a taste of the All-Star Game because the Rising Stars champions were entered into the four-team tournament.

Visibility matters a lot for young stars, and Castle made the most of his opportunities. His third dunk contest effort — a between-the-legs windmill that he started by catching the ball as it passed through the net during a made shot — was brilliantly conceived and executed. The judges erred mightily by not rewarding him with a 50, a decision that denied the possibility of an extra round of dunks between Castle and McClung.

Regardless, the Connecticut product’s willingness to go all in could pay dividends. He is one of the leading rookie of the year candidates, and he looks poised to grow alongside Wembanyama on a Spurs team that should be a real factor in next year’s playoffs. His focus, drive and athleticism left a mark on both the Rising Stars Challenge and Sunday’s tournament.

“I got to participate in events all three days,” Castle said. “As a rookie, I feel like that’s a successful weekend.”

[NASpurs]

The Spurs would've taken Reed, if timvp is to be believed.

That's gross. Thank you Houston.

There's an alternative universe where we have Scoot Henderson and Reed Sheppard.

[exstatic]

That's gross. Thank you Houston.

There's an alternative universe where we have Scoot Henderson and Reed Sheppard.

I think the non-Wemby universe selection that year was actually Amen Thompson.

[couchman]

Scoot is playing really well lately and a perfect example of why it is hard to judge guards early in their career.
I still think Reed will be a good player.
Obviously having Wemby and Castle is the best possible outcome from the last two drafts.

[Seventyniner]

I think the non-Wemby universe selection that year was actually Amen Thompson.

There's definitely an alternate universe where the Spurs get the 5th pick and don't get to take Wemby or Amen. Or Miller or Ausar. At that point it's plausible they hold their noses and pick Scoot.

[Knoxxx]

That’s ridiculous to argue about which alternate universe is the correct one.

[sfernald]

Let’s not make this the alternative timeline where Wemby gets traded to lakers for a happy meal pls.

[RC_Drunkford]

there's also an alternative universe where Duncan wins 6 rings and is considered the GOAT

[scott]

There's also an alternate universe where the San Antonio Spurs ceased to exist 30 years ago when Red McCombs moved the team to wherever the fuck.

Let's just be glad none of that happened.

[Ice009]

there's also an alternative universe where Duncan wins 6 rings and is considered the GOAT

The Spurs could have won more than 6 rings. 7 or 8 even. It'd be interesting to see what the alternate universe would have been like.

[ffadicted]

The Spurs could have won more than 6 rings. 7 or 8 even. It'd be interesting to see what the alternate universe would have been like.

Manu foul, Allen 3, Zaza ankle sabotage... we've seen some painful moments over the years :'(

[objective]

Castle is the player I've been most wrong about ever, and I'm quite happy about it

[100%duncan]

He might win roy but not confident he would have without mccain going down. Surprised we haven't seen the he's really 25 conspiracies yet

Ugh I hate this if this happens. Mccain was already declining before he even got injured. And he only plays one side of the ball. I wish he never got injured so that no one says this bs once Steph wins ROY.

[Knoxxx]

Relax, there will be no ROY asterisk, all the talk will be two straight ROY since it’s a much more interesting story. What a run for the often maligned B Wright also, pulling the Fox trade for so little then Castle’s sudden breakout.

[cutewizard]

Looking back >>>>>>

----------------------------------------------------------


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1LdPxipWIE

[Brazil]

If they send him back to the bench, they would be costing him RoY. We aren't winning shit this season and if Fox/Castle is suspossed to be the backcourt of the future, just start working on it now.

Any way you look at it, it doesn't make sense to send him back to the bench.

I don't see what the big deal is with starting or not, important is for him to have his minutes. Manu was coming off the bench and had a healthy amount of minutes with Tim and Tony anyway, more importantly he was on the floor late in the fourth. That's what I am looking for tbh... also you could argue that he has plenty of opportunities to score and showcase against opponent bench which is at the end good for ROTY not mentionning the fact his usage is higher on those circunstances

[Spursfanfromafar]

I just read what Sam Vecenie wrote about him in his elaborate NBA Draft guide for The Athletic. Vecenie captured Castle to a T. He has performed exactly as per Vecenie's expectations and has shown improvement in areas (apart from shooting, where too he has improved a bit) that Vecenie pointed out - taking the ball to the rack, finishing etc.

[DAF86]

I don't see what the big deal is with starting or not, important is for him to have his minutes. Manu was coming off the bench and had a healthy amount of minutes with Tim and Tony anyway, more importantly he was on the floor late in the fourth. That's what I am looking for tbh... also you could argue that he has plenty of opportunities to score and showcase against opponent bench which is at the end good for ROTY not mentionning the fact his usage is higher on those circunstances

When you start from the bench, you always play less than when you start. It happened to Manu, it is happening now to Castle.

Sure, in a world where Castle still plays 30 minutes despite coming off the bench, I guess it would be OK (not entirely, because if the goal is for him to start in the future, why not have him start right now. But I digress), but that just doesn't happen.

[DAF86]

1892000974010499482

[RC_Drunkford]

Castle is already averaging Tony Parker and D-Wade numbers at the rim


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmrJuwPVXqo

[ffadicted]

Castle is already averaging Tony Parker and D-Wade numbers at the rim


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmrJuwPVXqo

Damn you fast, was just about to post this LOL
I thought this video was fantastic, def recommend the watch. A very optimistic, but realistic assessment of Castle's strengths, weaknesses, and what he needs to focus on both ends of the floor to maximize his potential. Should be mandatory watch for our coaching staff.

[DAF86]

I'm really excited to see what Castle can do being given the starting PG and #1 option roles, tbh.

[Ice009]

I'm really excited to see what Castle can do being given the starting PG and #1 option roles, tbh.

Will he actually be given that role, though?

[tim_duncan_fan]

Will he actually be given that role, though?

Well first thing, he has to take it. Outside of Dejounte, our young guys the last 10 years have just been too unassuming and incapable of claiming such a role. Keldon, Vassell, Lonnie, Branham, Dick Flasher, hell — Derrick White, even. There has long been a void where anybody willing and capable of proving themselves could step into a lead guard/wing role.


Let's hope Castle is finally the one to have some moxie.

[Ice009]

Well first thing, he has to take it. Outside of Dejounte, our young guys the last 10 years have just been too unassuming and incapable of claiming such a role. Keldon, Vassell, Lonnie, Branham, Dick Flasher, hell — Derrick White, even. There has long been a void where anybody willing and capable of proving themselves could step into a lead guard/wing role.


Let's hope Castle is finally the one to have some moxie.

Yeah, very true. I believe he has the will to want to do it. I think he's strong mentally and wants to take it.

[DAF86]

Will he actually be given that role, though?

The Spurs would be really dumb not to. Castle's development has now become the #1 on court priority for the reminder of the season.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/spurs/status/1892773243200602554

[spursistan]

Castle is a stud, a true menace. The 'IT' factor is seeping out of the kid's every pore..
https://x.com/NBATV/status/1896019864445214983
https://x.com/SpursReporter/status/1896037940880687585

[onechance87]

Coach better stop fcking with castle development and play him.

[Manu-of-steel]

Steph is a dawg, good thing he was unleashed tonight. I get that CP3 has done wonderful things in the development of the youngster, but CP should not hinder Castle's development. Coach Mitch, give Castle his minutes. Let him play thru mistakes.

[Ice009]

Steph, IMO did't really play as bad as his numbers/minutes indicate those games where he didn't get minutes. He was fucked around by the coaching staff when he should have been starting. He's was a front runner for rookie of the year going into the games after the all-star break and then had his minutes cut. They showed a stat in the game where he's 6th among rookies for minutes. That's a fucking joke, especially when your team is one of the worst in the league. Probably was a bit deflated for a few games and in-turn, didn't play up to par. If he got the minutes like he should have, I'm sure he would have played better by the the end of those games if he had played 25-30 minutes. He's usually a fast learner than can correct his mistakes during a game. Sometimes he has a bad shooting night, but even so, not often does he play a terrible game all around as he does other stuff. Mitch cutting him to 10 minutes was absolutely egregious coaching.

I don't think him getting into it with Edey was all to do with the NCAA game. I think it was more Steph setting the tone and showing toughness and balls which this team lacks. Leading the way, as I'm sure he's sick of the losing players on this team and wanted to show them he's not backing down.

Disgusting that his minutes were cut for no reason with Mitch saying some bullshit about he made a few mistakes while letting other players play through hundreds of mistakes.

[rankingtear]

Nobody cares about ROY in a shit draft class.

[couchman]

I love Steph but let’s be real his stats would not win ROTY in most seasons.

[Manu-of-steel]

The fact is that Castle is leading the ROY race. Isn't it something we as Spurs fans should be proud of?

[Ice009]

I love Steph but let’s be real his stats would not win ROTY in most seasons.

If he actually got the minutes, he'd be further ahead. He's 6th in minutes among rookies according to a stat they showed during the game. That might be OK if he was on a top team, but he isn't. He should have been getting more minutes as soon as the Spurs figured out the season was lost when Victor was ruled out for the rest of it. His minutes should have been one of the top priorities at that point.


The fact is that Castle is leading the ROY race. Isn't it something we as Spurs fans should be proud of?

Of course fans should be. I want him to win rookie of the year.

[cutewizard]

We should be proud to have this stud

[Obstructed_View]

Nobody cares about ROY in a shit draft class.
I'm sure the guy whose team has literally nothing to play for and risks his winning the award by cutting his minutes cares.

[rankingtear]

I'm sure the guy whose team has literally nothing to play for and risks his winning the award by cutting his minutes cares.

Risk winning a useless award.

[Ice009]

Risk winning a useless award.

Seriously man, maybe it means nothing to you, but if I was in the NBA, it'd freaking mean a lot to me. I'm sure Steph cares about it too, just as I'm sure Victor cared about it last season when he had that showdown with Chet to end the debate.

[rankingtear]

Seriously man, maybe it means nothing to you, but if I was in the NBA, it'd freaking mean a lot to me. I'm sure Steph cares about it too, just as I'm sure Victor cared about it last season when he had that showdown with Chet to end the debate.

Eh winners don't care about useless awards. Voters just pick who has the most counting stats, players know that. It is like sixth man and scoring title.

[Ice009]

Eh winners don't care about useless awards. Voters just pick who has the most counting stats, players know that. It is like sixth man and scoring title.

Yes, we know that, but 99% of players would want the award. You're used to Tim Duncan and Manu who didn't give a shit about that stuff. That's not 99% of the NBA and players.

[Splits]

1896168691764703488

[Ice009]

Most people have been calling for the combination for two weeks now to see what it would look like.

I was really grateful for Chris Paul earlier in the season, but since the Fox trade, he's already started wearing on me. I think he said something like he's a good shooter and that he thinks he can work well with Fox off the ball, but I don't agree with his assessment. Maybe when he was younger, but not anymore. Someone more dynamic works much better with Fox. He's a hindrance out there when paired with Fox. He doesn't do much on offense when he's off the ball (he's not that big of a threat to score anymore even on a wide open shot and he can't get the the rim at all), and his defense isn't great anymore. I feel bad for him as he was a great, great player, but unfortunately, he's not still playing anywhere near his old level like Lebron is.

[CGD]

I love that Steph takes it personal against other rookies in his class. Definitely seems to want to son them every time they play.

[DAF86]

Eh winners don't care about useless awards. Voters just pick who has the most counting stats, players know that. It is like sixth man and scoring title.

Wemby cared, Castle cares. Everybody cares.

[CGD]

Wemby cared, Castle cares. Everybody cares.

Of course they care. Forget the pride for a minute, these awards put players on a “narrative path” that leads them to getting paid. For example, for Steph a ROY could accelerate his path to an “all-team” slot in a few years, and that’s definitely tied to more cash.