This episode is often cited by fans as one of the best for the dynamic, giving Jon Huertas a chance to showcase a more vulnerable side of his character.

: Detective Demming continues his pursuit of Kate Beckett, much to Rick Castle's annoyance.

: Watching Beckett and Demming bond over professional respect and shared experiences at the shooting range leaves Castle feeling like an outsider in Beckett's "real" world.

: The episode highlights the theme of loyalty and the thin line between justice and corruption, as Esposito struggles to find the truth about Thornton's fate. The "Third Wheel": Enter Detective Demming

: This episode serves as the final setup for the Season 2 finale, forcing Castle to realize that his window for making a move on Beckett might be closing. Deep Themes: Perception vs. Reality

: The episode title refers not just to the criminals, but to the feeling that Demming is "stealing" Beckett away from Castle, and Racine’s ability to "steal" the lives of cops who get too close.

: Esposito is forced to confront the possibility that his old mentor may have "gone bad" and joined the crew of Victor Racine , a ruthless crime lord who has eluded the police for decades.