Jalen Brunson has built a reputation as one of the NBA’s toughest guards to contain, but heading into the NBA Finals, he knows the challenge in front of him might be unlike anything he’s faced this postseason.
The New York Knicks star singled out Spurs guard Stephon Castle during Finals media day, praising the second-year standout for the defensive impact he’s already making around the league.
“He’s great. I think his intensity and tenacity is special,” Brunson said during media day at San Antonio’s Frost Bank Center on Tuesday. “He plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’s had that since I’ve seen him at UConn. The way he’s played over these first couple years of his career, he’s going to be a great player, great defender.”
Castle has already earned a reputation as one of the league’s most disruptive perimeter defenders.
During San Antonio’s playoff run, he spent time guarding players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle and Deni Avdija. Castle also held Brunson to three-for-11 shooting when matched up against him during regular-season meetings.
Castle explained the approach that has worked best for him against the Knicks star.
“I think what’s worked for me is trying to be physical with him,” Castle said. “He’s obviously shorter than me, but he’s a very physical guard, he gets to his spots well. Uses deception well, has great footwork.
“Trying to be as disciplined as I can, crowd his space, but not give him the angles that he’s looking for. At this point he’s seen pretty much every coverage, been guarded all kinds of ways.”
Of course, Castle is only part of the problem.
Behind him is Victor Wembanyama, whose presence around the rim changes everything for opposing offenses. Brunson acknowledged the difficulty of attacking a Spurs defense loaded with length, athleticism and versatility.
READ MORE: Gregg Popovich Remains Key to Spurs Success in NBA Finals