Stephon Castle’s return to the bench could come with silver lining

San Antonio Spurs rookie Stephon Castle has played a larger-than-expected role to start the season, playing well in extended minutes. As a starter, he averages 14.3 points and 4.4 assists while making timely plays to help the Spurs get off to their best start in years.

Even so, when Devin Vassell eventually returns to the starting lineup, Castle will likely be headed to the bench. Nevertheless, his play should translate to the second unit now that he has had a chance to get acclimated to the NBA.

His performance thus far has led to increasing optimism about his future with the team, with him already being a skilled defender who can also attack on offense and hit big threes. Although his shooting remains a question mark, now that he has held his own against opposing starting lineups, he should have increased confidence heading back to the bench.

Stephon Castle’s return to the bench could have several benefits

With the Spurs often playing Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama with the bench unit at the end of the first and third quarters and to start the second and fourth quarters, Castle will still get a chance to play with the team's best players. However, he will also get the opportunity to create more now that he has shown what he can do.

If the Spurs continue to improve, Castle playing a large role off the bench could elevate him in the conversation for Rookie of the Year and make him a dark horse candidate for Sixth Man of the Year, though that is far more unlikely for a first-year player. Of course, if that is his role for the rest of this season and next season, he may be a stronger candidate as a sophomore.

What is clear is that Castle is already an integral part of the Spurs rotation. While that is often to be expected of a fourth overall pick, for a team that is desperately trying to make the playoffs, having them play meaningful minutes and not be a big negative is a major plus.

If he can continue to defend at a high level, attack the back, and hit the occasional three, he may even close some games. That would further aid his development.

Overall, with Vassell set to rejoin the Spurs starting lineup soon, Castle could be heading back to the bench. That may not be a bad thing with Castle having gotten plenty of playing time as a starter and the confidence he needs to thrive in the second unit.