While Bogoljub Markovic and Brandon Boston Jr. stole most of the spotlight in the Milwaukee Bucks' first game of Summer League, Rafael Castro's performance was also strong. The forward, who went undrafted and signed with Milwaukee via a two-way contract soon after, put together a nice showing that helped the Bucks storm back and beat the Golden State Warriors.
Castro played well for Bucks
Castro's calling card has always been his effort, and it was on display against Golden State. In 19 and a half minutes, he tallied six rebounds, four points, four steals, one block, and an assist, doing a bit of everything in his first action with the Milwaukee Bucks.
The forward was one of the best rebounders in the entire nation this past season, so it wasn't surprising to see him make an impact in that regard for the Bucks right off the bat. He utilized his strength and instincts to fight inside and grab rebounds, which was a breath of fresh air after the team was constantly plagued by a lack of effort on the glass last season.
Defensively, Castro was excellent. He served as a deterrent for anyone driving to the hoop down low, which included an impressive swat to record his lone block. His hands were incredibly active, which helped him log those four steals. Just like in college, Castro looks like he can be an immediate threat on the defensive side.
Castro still has room to grow
Obviously, Castro is far from a finished product.
The biggest room for improvement would be on the offensive end. He attempted just two shots, and they were both right at the rim. He plays similarly to Jericho Sims, Milwaukee's recently re-upped big man who is primarily a lob threat without anything resembling a jump shot. No one will ask him to get one overnight, but if he can develop some moves inside, Castro will be all the more lethal.
Other than that, all Castro must do to earn his keep is to continue playing to his strengths on defense and as a rebounder. If he keeps picking up the steals, blocks, and rebounds, he could work his way to becoming a standard contributor in due time. For now, he simply has to keep working and vindicate the Milwaukee Bucks for picking him up after the draft.
Of course, it's early. Only one Summer League game has happened. Yet, it's hard to be displeased with the results. It sure looks like the Bucks found another gem, piling onto the recent trend with players like Cormac Ryan, AJ Green, and Ryan Rollins in recent years.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
Add us as a preferred source on Google