Drexel game thread
I'm sure there will be a lot of specific thoughts to share about the Drexel game. I will try to do a couple of posts during the game, as well.
Despite having 7 returning Juniors & Seniors from last year's rotation plus an experienced RS Junior (Scott), there are a whole lot of unanswered questions.
Most have to do with the way Coach McKie functions as a game coach.
Here are some of my top questions/keys to the game:
1) Will the Big 3 function smoothly enough in terms of play-making, or will a true PG (A.M.) have to play a lot of minutes to distribute the ball?
2) Will Temple's defense be able to limit Drexel to below 33% FG3% and 50% FG2%?
3) Will Drexel win the rebounding battle, and by how much?
4) Will our PF & Centers be able to contribute 20 pts & 20 rebounds?
5) Will his starting lineup function well enough to play 150 minutes, or will he have to play his bench more than 50 minutes?
6) How well will Parks and JPL play, and will they be able to contribute at all to a Temple win?
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On the last point, Parks could really save the day for Temple if he could play 6-8 minutes, play solid defense, and grab a few rebounds. The loss of Aflakpui could hurt this team almost as much as the loss of Alston does.
Regarding JPL, I've been concerned about the reports about him during the preseason, but will he rally now that the season is beginning? Doubt we'll see much of him, but perhaps he'll be called upon to play a little bit of shut-down defense and drive to the hoop once or twice.
With his speed, I've got the image in my mind of him functioning a bit like Khalif Wyatt and Will Cummings did - - just attacking the basket and drawing fouls. If he could come into the game for 3 minutes as a defensive specialist and attack the basket, draw a foul, then his time on the court could be worthwhile.
If he could handle that sort of in-and-out role, come in for 2 minutes, disrupt the opponent's rhythm on both ends, and make a quick exit, it could be just what the doctor ordered until Dunn returns; maybe once or twice per game.
My concern is that, while Alani is capable, his ability to give the team a boost off the bench is limited, since he's only a threat from the perimeter and only when he doesn't have a defender in his face.
You had mentioned McKie working with a high pressure half court defensive unit. It seems to me that Perry and JPL will probably be in such a unit along with NPL and maybe Parks. JPL's driving ability could help the Owls take advantage of fast break opportunities off turnovers.
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