The NBA’s new points of emphasis may have handed the San Antonio Spurs a useful edge before the season even tips off.
With the Spurs set to open against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 20th, one league directive in particular could matter: the crackdown on offensive players extending an off-arm to create separation. That change could make life a little tougher for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whose game has long included using that off-arm on jumpers and drives.
That’s where Stephon Castle comes in. If the officials are strict about push-offs, Castle may have a better chance to stay in front of Gilgeous-Alexander without getting displaced as often. Castle is also listed among the worst offenders himself, so there’s a little irony in all of this, but the broader point remains: anything that reduces SGA’s ability to create space could help San Antonio.
The Spurs already had some success dealing with him last season. Castle bothered him, and Victor Wembanyama gave San Antonio the league’s best shot blocker behind him. That combination made Gilgeous-Alexander work, and the Spurs would love to see that carry over into this season.
Of course, Gilgeous-Alexander is still a top-tier scorer, and he’ll almost certainly find answers to the rule change. The question is whether those answers come against San Antonio.
There’s also a bigger picture here. If the Spurs beat the Thunder again, it would be their ninth win in 10 tries dating back to the start of last season. That kind of run would send a message, especially with San Antonio already sitting as the Western Conference champions.
Still, the Spurs know there’s more defensive growth available. Castle and Wembanyama could both take another step on that end, and Carter Bryant is another name to watch as a possible wildcard if these teams cross paths again in the playoffs.
For now, though, the spotlight is on opening night. San Antonio has a chance to start the season by putting pressure on Gilgeous-Alexander and making a statement against Oklahoma City.
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