Stephon Castle will have a surprising role to start the Spurs' season

Fresh off an outstanding debut Rookie of the Year campaign, Stephon Castle is preparing to break through yet another wall. The youngster is not ready to back down and is determined to hurdle the sophomore slump. However, while he may have the tools to be an NBA All-Star, he would have to battle a cast of hungry Spurs for opportunity.

Unlike Castle's rookie season, where he was given the green light to take as many shots as he would like, a strict structure has been placed around him. He would have to play third fiddle next to Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox in the offense. However, the pecking order is set to be altered to begin the season.

In the wake of Fox's hamstring injury, Castle will get a prime chance to take over lead-ball handler duties and work on the aspects of his game that he has practiced over the offseason. This unique opportunity could be absolutely game-changing for both the young guard and the Spurs.

Stephon Castle has been working on becoming a better point guard

Throughout the offseason, Castle has been dialed in on mastering a numerous amount of specific point guard traits. In his work, the UConn alum has been developing his quickness on making reads while on the ball, shooting off the dribble, and expanding his shot diet. The hasty scorer is working on perfecting his offensive game.

These skills will all be on display when Castle gets his opportunity to shine later this month. With the ball in his hands, the 20-year-old will look to perfect his passes, elevate his jump-shooting success rate, and look for more buckets off of drives. With Fox in the lineup, the often-seen shooting guard won't need to get these chances; Now he will.

This development could host a massive breakthrough for the crafty finisher. With the additional in-game reps as a point guard, he will be able to translate what he has learned to his usual role as a shooting guard. Even with Fox on the court, Castle will still be given touches in isolation where he can show off his scoring prowess.

Most importantly, Castle's jump shot evolving this offseason would be monumental for the Spurs. San Antonio is in desperate need of consistent shooting, and without it, they may not reach the goals they desired. If the all-around scorer can become a steady hand from beyond the arc, everything will open up for the Spurs. His time as a point guard could go a long way in accomplishing this mission.

While the Fox injury is as devastating a news as we could hear, the lone bright spot in it all is Stephon Castle. The Spurs and their fans have high hopes for the blossoming star, and now he will get his break. If everything goes as planned, this change could be the key to the Spurs building a future dynasty.