Despite a strong start for the San Antonio Spurs, Stephon Castle’s new off‑ball focus is coinciding with a sharp dip in his shooting efficiency.
Key points
- Castle’s three‑point volume is high but his 32.8% conversion rate undermines scoring efficiency.
- Inside‑the‑paint shooting and free‑throw attempts have declined sharply compared with last season.
- The off‑ball role benefits the Spurs’ overall offense but limits Castle’s personal production.
- Coaches may look to diversify Castle’s shot mix, emphasizing rim attacks and mid‑range work.
The Spurs have opened the season on a positive note, yet the team’s coaching staff is already questioning the viability of Stephon Castle’s revamped offensive responsibilities, according to airalamo.com.
Castle is now averaging 15.3 points per game while attempting 6.7 three‑pointers per contest, but his 3‑point conversion has slipped to 32.8%. His efficiency inside the paint has also eroded, with his conversion rate inside three feet falling from 71% last season to 51.2% this year, and his free‑throw attempts dropping from 5.6 to 1.9 per game.
Declining efficiency and scoring
The shift to an off‑ball role has helped teammates such as De’Aaron Fox, who is seeing a rise in assists, and Dylan Harper, now the team’s second‑leading scorer, but Castle’s own production has suffered, highlighted by a 6‑for‑20 shooting night against the Dallas Mavericks where he made only 2 of 9 three‑point attempts.
Analysts cited by the source argue that Castle should reduce his reliance on three‑point shots—currently more than half of his attempts—and incorporate more rim attacks, mid‑range jumpers, and opportunities near the basket, including alley‑oop scenarios when Victor Wembanyama draws defensive attention.
Impact of the off‑ball shift
Adjusting his shot selection and increasing his presence in the paint could also raise his free‑throw volume, offering a clearer path to improve both scoring output and overall efficiency for the Spurs.
Reader questions
Why is Stephon Castle’s three‑point percentage a concern for the Spurs?
At 32.8% on 6.7 attempts per game, the low conversion rate reduces his scoring efficiency and forces the team to rely on less effective shots.
What changes are being suggested to improve Castle’s performance?
The source recommends cutting back on three‑point attempts, increasing shots at the rim and mid‑range, and seeking more opportunities for alley‑oops and free‑throw attempts.
Source: airalamo.com
