13. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Jazz) select Stephon Castle
The Thunder have become a force and are loaded with young talent. They have a superstar in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and two budding co-stars in Chet Holmgren and Jaylen Williams. Davis Bertans, Kenrich Williams, and Vasilije Micic are the only players over 25 years old on OKC’s roster. The Thunder have three first-round picks in this mock draft and a consolidation trade is necessary.
Oklahoma City has time to wait. They can draft for upside and give the player years to grow before becoming a needed part of their rotation. Castle was viewed as a top-ten pick early in the season but has struggled to bounce back after a meniscus injury. He is finally playing more and the playmaking is starting to pop.
Castle is just two of 13 from 3-point range through his first ten college games, but finding a 6’6 guard with lead playmaker ability is not easy. Some franchise will overlook his shooting struggles and take him in the lottery.
The Thunder have the talent and luxury to draft Stephon Castle. He profiles as a strong defender both on and off the ball. Add in his ball-handling and playmaking to make for an interesting prospect. Oklahoma City needs to play him in lineups with shooters, but Stephon Castle could be the steal of this draft if he lasts this long.