Wembanyama Glad Castle Fell To Spurs After Draft

Merlin sees Victor Wembanyama openly thrilled that rookie Stephon Castle fell to San Antonio at No. 4. After both posted double-doubles in a recent win, Wembanyama praised Castle’s natural playmaking, saying "He 100 percent deserved to be the No. 1 pick, but I'm so glad he wasn't." Castle finished with 15 points and 10 assists in that game, leads his draft class in total points and scoring (15.5 per game), and has helped the Spurs reach 49 wins and clinch a playoff berth. Merlin senses more than chemistry. Pairing Wembanyama with a gifted, defensive-minded guard has quickened the Spurs’ ascent. Castle’s instincts create easier looks and fortify the backcourt, so San Antonio’s ceiling just moved higher if his growth continues.