Jeff Reynolds: Butler showed a different defense in the first half, doubling the post when the pass arrived. Sooner than anticipated. Adjustments were made in the second half, going to different sets.
- Buzz came up with the 'weave with ball screens' idea for the second half, leading to lay ups.
- Jake and Derrick were outstanding on defense.
- JaJuan did a nice job of extending the catches (playing defense, forcing him away from the basket) for Woods. JJJ is 6'3.
- NBA scouts think there is a Marquette brand. Tough, versatile, defensively sound.
- Buzz evaluates toughness, athleticism, character, skill set, in that order. For prospective recruits.
-Scheme developed at halftime allowed Todd and Deonte to thrive in the second half.
-Coaches knew going in to season that with the backcourt departures, it would be difficult to replicate back court production.
-Homer still saying 'Nelligan Sports'.
- Difference in last night's game was the coach's and player's ability to make adjustments. MU's were better.
-Substitution pattern: Buzz substitutes based on what the team needs the next 2 possessions. There has been dialogue about letting players play longer. Some need longer to get into the flow.
Buzz: Butler is very sound in their 1/2 court offense/defense.
-First half was like the game at Hinkle. Figuring out how Butler was 'monstering the post' was tough.
-Half time talk...make sure 3 pt shots are the right ones. Make consecutive stops. Discussed the second half adjustments.
-Inbounds defense is different. That causes the long in bounds pass to midcourt. MU has also changed how MU guards in-bounds plays. Not to get steals, but to disrupt other teams in-bounds plays. Zoning inbounds is preventive medicine.
-Todd played all 20 minutes...Jake and Jamil in foul trouble.
-JJJ did a reallllly good job on #31. Showed great maturity in how he defended.
-Derrick is as good a perimeter defender as Buzz has ever coached. Strength, center of gravity, intellect.
-MU changed how they attacked, Butler has a shell at 16 feet. As soon as the ball goes to the post, hard double team. Better spacing.
-Chris is an offensive lineman. What he does doesn't show up in stats. What he does is open space for others by sealing lanes.
-Deonte: Can't be stopped by one man. You can count on him. Needs to have the same presence on the glass as he does offensively. DB was gassed in the second half. When he gets tired, he doesn't 'get in there' to rebound. Can't play 17 minutes and have 2 rebounds. A future double/double guy.
- Buzz doesn't like the amount that he has had to rely on the freshmen. They are still growing up.
-NCAA tourney talk: Gotta go 6-2. 11 conference wins should be enough. Based on history of BCS basketball conferences, only 1 school with 11 conference wins hasn't made it.
linky linky please!
http://www.stationcaster.com/player_skinned.php?s=71&c=766&f=2402613
If Buzz doesn't like the amount he has had to rely on freshmen this year, next year is going to make his head explode.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 08:39:09 AM
If Buzz doesn't like the amount he has had to rely on freshmen this year, next year is going to make his head explode.
Why? Assuming everyone returns (which is stupid, I know), the team is nine deep before you even touch the freshmen.
http://www.muscoop.com/index.php?page=8
I have made that point before. Assuming everybody returns, Mayo, Juan, Steve, Derrick, JJJ, Dawson, Deonte, with the RS Frosh Duane and the sophomore Luke. I just see next year's team has needing more contributions from the Frosh. Also, define your terms. Will you consider Duane a freshman? Any way you slice it, assuming status quo, there will be 3 seniors, 1 junior, 4 sophomores (1 new to the program) and 5 freshmen (one a red-shirt). There is going have to be contributions from the new guys/young guys.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 08:39:09 AM
If Buzz doesn't like the amount he has had to rely on freshmen this year, next year is going to make his head explode.
I think the amount of time Buzz likes the freshmen to play is very much a year-to-year thing. This year he clearly would have liked his upperclassmen to carry the load, and he is slowly finding that that simply is not going to be the case. I would imagine next year he doesn't have that upperclassmen foundation he thought he had this year, so his expectations of Freshmen play time will be different.
Quote from: g0lden3agle on February 06, 2014, 08:59:05 AM
I think the amount of time Buzz likes the freshmen to play is very much a year-to-year thing. This year he clearly would have liked his upperclassmen to carry the load, and he is slowly finding that that simply is not going to be the case. I would imagine next year he doesn't have that upperclassmen foundation he thought he had this year, so his expectations of Freshmen play time will be different.
I think the problem a lot of us have is how long it took him to realize this.
Quote from: windyplayer on February 06, 2014, 09:02:21 AM
I think the problem a lot of us have is how long it took him to realize this.
The frosh at this point are much better than they were in December, which is a big reason why they're seeing more minutes (not to mention that JJJ was injured for a period of time or he'd have seen minutes earlier). Freshmen are typically very inconsistent and MU's current upperclassmen have also been inconsistent. The degree of difficulty in coaching a bunch of inconsistent players is off the charts.
Quote from: MerrittsMustache on February 06, 2014, 09:25:40 AM
The frosh at this point are much better than they were in December, which is a big reason why they're seeing more minutes (not to mention that JJJ was injured for a period of time or he'd have seen minutes earlier). Freshmen are typically very inconsistent and MU's current upperclassmen have also been inconsistent. The degree of difficulty in coaching a bunch of inconsistent players is off the charts.
Of course the freshman are so much better now...two whole months in a life of playing basketball for likely 15+ years..and now they've taken such a leap and are completely different players?? Please.
Sure would be nice if your boy Derrick could have been "much better" in just two months. We are going on 3 years now, and virtually no improvement.
The reason why the freshman are starting to see more minutes...is because the vets have largely been so ineffective..and "led" us to the 12-10 record. Sadly, the vet who has shown the least improvement, continues to get the most minutes on the team.
Yet Buzz's statement of "don't like to have to rely on the freshman," clearly indicates his personal belief on freshman...is avoid playing them at all costs...
What isn't difficult to do is determine who your most talented guys are on a basketball team....and then run the hell out of them. Stop trying to turn a piece of coal into a diamond.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 09:42:21 AM
Of course the freshman are so much better now...two whole months in a life of playing basketball for likely 15+ years..and now they've taken such a leap and are completely different players?? Please.
You clearly have no idea what it takes to go from High School to D1 college ball.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 09:42:21 AM
The reason why the freshman are starting to see more minutes...is because the vets have largely been so ineffective..and "led" us to the 12-10 record. Sadly, the vet who has shown the least improvement, continues to get the most minutes on the team.
Yet Buzz's statement of "don't like to have to rely on the freshman," clearly indicates his personal belief on freshman...is avoid playing them at all costs...
You acknowledge that the vets we should have been able to ride have failed us, and Buzz is also recognizing this fact. How does this mean he's avoiding playing the freshmen at all costs?
Really think we have to go 7-1 instead of 6-2, especially with the lack of non conference/ quality wins.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 09:42:21 AM
Sure would be nice if your boy Derrick could have been "much better" in just two months. We are going on 3 years now, and virtually no improvement.
LOL...really? "Virtually no improvement?"
He has increased his shooting percentage, his A/TO ratio, his rebounding, his +/-... In fact the only things that he hasn't much improved on is his 3FG% and FT%, both of which are unchanged.
And you know why Derrick ends up being "my guy" on this board? Not because we think he's great by any means, but because you have to be out-and-out *dishonest* when making assertions like the one you made above.
Most other people (such as CTWarrior) manages to get their points out without the need to exaggerate what supports your argument, and ignore what doesn't. You really should try to do the same.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 09:42:21 AM
Of course the freshman are so much better now...two whole months in a life of playing basketball for likely 15+ years..and now they've taken such a leap and are completely different players?? Please.
Sure would be nice if your boy Derrick could have been "much better" in just two months. We are going on 3 years now, and virtually no improvement.
The reason why the freshman are starting to see more minutes...is because the vets have largely been so ineffective..and "led" us to the 12-10 record. Sadly, the vet who has shown the least improvement, continues to get the most minutes on the team.
Yet Buzz's statement of "don't like to have to rely on the freshman," clearly indicates his personal belief on freshman...is avoid playing them at all costs...
What isn't difficult to do is determine who your most talented guys are on a basketball team....and then run the hell out of them. Stop trying to turn a piece of coal into a diamond.
Ners,
I'm gonna repost this thread.
http://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=41416.0
Please don't wantonly attack players just to reiterate your mantra. Derrick has improved greatly and if you don't see that, you are just being biased and stubborn. Granted, part of that is because he had a long way to go, but he has worked hard to improve his game.
In the last four games Derrick has accumulated: 26 points, 10 rebounds, 25 assists, and 10 steals. That's good for 6.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 6.25 apg, and 2.5 spg. Besides rebounds, those numbers are all better than what he was putting up before. Ergo, improvement. Not to mention the fact that that stat line is pretty damn good for a PG. I would like a few more ppg but I could live with it.
To say he struggles at shooting or against the press is factual. To say no improvement is false, plain and simple. It also discredits all the work one of our players has put into the team that we all love.
You are a smart guy Ners. You make a lot of good points. Don't spoil it with this crap
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:01:27 AM
LOL...really? "Virtually no improvement?"
He has increased his shooting percentage, his A/TO ratio, his rebounding, his +/-... In fact the only things that he hasn't much improved on is his 3FG% and FT%, both of which are unchanged.
And you know why Derrick ends up being "my guy" on this board? Not because we think he's great by any means, but because you have to be out-and-out *dishonest* when making assertions like the one you made above.
Most other people (such as CTWarrior) manages to get their points out without the need to exaggerate what supports your argument, and ignore what doesn't. You really should try to do the same.
Gah! Beat me by six seconds!
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:01:27 AM
LOL...really? "Virtually no improvement?"
He has increased his shooting percentage, his A/TO ratio, his rebounding, his +/-... In fact the only things that he hasn't much improved on is his 3FG% and FT%, both of which are unchanged.
And you know why Derrick ends up being "my guy" on this board? Not because we think he's great by any means, but because you have to be out-and-out *dishonest* when making assertions like the one you made above.
Most other people (such as CTWarrior) manages to get their points out without the need to exaggerate what supports your argument, and ignore what doesn't. You really should try to do the same.
Well I sure as heck would hope a guy shows some improvement in numbers when their minutes go from:
8.8
13.1
29.7
One better get more assists and rebounds when their minutes double...and they are playing 75% of all available minutes.
The fact you and the other hardcore Derrick backers....reach...and try to make exaggerations to justify him being on the court...is where you lose 70% of this board! You simply are grasping at straws.
I'm sure you expected more improvement from Derrick by now...but since it really hasn't happened...you are left with little to stand on.
I'm sure you'd hoped you'd see his 3PT FG% improve from 8%, and FT% to improve from 46% by now...
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 10:10:41 AM
Well I sure as heck would hope a guy shows some improvement in numbers when their minutes go from:
8.8
13.1
29.7
One better get more assists and rebounds when their minutes double...and they are playing 75% of all available minutes.
The fact you and the other hardcore Derrick backers....reach...and try to make exaggerations to justify him being on the court...is where you lose 70% of this board! You simply are grasping at straws.
I'm sure you expected more improvement from Derrick by now...but since it really hasn't happened...you are left with little to stand on.
I'm sure you'd hoped you'd see his 3PT FG% improve from 8%, and FT% to improve from 46% by now...
Dude, you need to chill the unnatural carnal knowledge out. Like for reals this time. It's kids shooting a ball into a hoop.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 10:10:41 AM
Well I sure as heck would hope a guy shows some improvement in numbers when their minutes go from:
8.8
13.1
29.7
One better get more assists and rebounds when their minutes double...and they are playing 75% of all available minutes.
The fact you and the other hardcore Derrick backers....reach...and try to make exaggerations to justify him being on the court...is where you lose 70% of this board! You simply are grasping at straws.
I'm sure you expected more improvement from Derrick by now...but since it really hasn't happened...you are left with little to stand on.
I'm sure you'd hoped you'd see his 3PT FG% improve from 8%, and FT% to improve from 46% by now...
I guess the point sailed over your head...yet again.
I have flat out said that Derrick is "average at best" and said that Dawson should play more. But I get labelled a "hard-core Derrick backer" because I don't want to turn the starting job over to Dawson.
And you in fact just refuted your own assertion that Derrick has shown virtually no improvement. He in fact *has* shown improvement in almost every category. Yeah, I realize that he had a low starting point. Yeah I realize that this improvement doesn't make him a great PG by any means.
But see how I can make that point without exaggeration and lies? It's simple really.
EDIT: And as reinko said, just stop. Really. You have made your point repeatedly. You've started new threads...changed the topic in others...literally chased good, contributing members out of this forum. And for what? You aren't changing anyone's minds with the methods you use.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 10:10:41 AM
Well I sure as heck would hope a guy shows some improvement in numbers when their minutes go from:
8.8
13.1
29.7
One better get more assists and rebounds when their minutes double...and they are playing 75% of all available minutes.
The fact you and the other hardcore Derrick backers....reach...and try to make exaggerations to justify him being on the court...is where you lose 70% of this board! You simply are grasping at straws.
I'm sure you expected more improvement from Derrick by now...but since it really hasn't happened...you are left with little to stand on.
I'm sure you'd hoped you'd see his 3PT FG% improve from 8%, and FT% to improve from 46% by now...
His per 40 and percentage numbers are almost all improved across the board with the exception on the few stats that you always pound on.
Talk about the pot calling the kettle black
Quote from: g0lden3agle on February 06, 2014, 10:19:43 AM
His per 40 and percentage numbers are almost all improved across the board with the exception on the few stats that you always pound on.
Talk about the pot calling the kettle black
With the amount of minutes he plays of course his stats are bound to go up. When you start as low as he does it's only logical. I feel he is a good rebounder for a guard and plays solid defense most of the time. Those are his only redeeming qualities. His assist numbers are really not indicative of the PG he is...passing the ball around the perimeter to accumulate those stats is very misleading. Besides lay ups, I can honestly say I have seen him hit 4 shots outside of 6 ft this year. On his best day he is a game manager who plays good defense. On his worst days (much more frequent) he is an offensive liability who struggles to get not only himself, but his teammates going. On most top 100 teams he would be playing 7-10 minutes max. He is a fine representative of Marquette though and I wish him lots of success. I just hope this year is his peak for playing time and next year he turns back into the limited role player he was destined to be.
Quote from: mubuzz on February 06, 2014, 10:35:02 AM
With the amount of minutes he plays of course his stats are bound to go up. When you start as low as he does it's only logical. I feel he is a good rebounder for a guard and plays solid defense most of the time. Those are his only redeeming qualities. His assist numbers are really not indicative of the PG he is...passing the ball around the perimeter to accumulate those stats is very misleading. Besides lay ups, I can honestly say I have seen him hit 4 shots outside of 6 ft this year. On his best day he is a game manager who plays good defense. On his worst days (much more frequent) he is an offensive liability who struggles to get not only himself, but his teammates going. On most top 100 teams he would be playing 7-10 minutes max. He is a fine representative of Marquette though and I wish him lots of success. I just hope this year is his peak for playing time and next year he turns back into the limited role player he was destined to be.
Christ...again...that's NOT EVEN THE POINT OF GOLDEN'S POST. My goodness, it's like a broken record.
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:38:57 AM
Christ...again...that's NOT EVEN THE POINT OF GOLDEN'S POST. My goodness, it's like a broken record.
Thanks Sultan.
I'm not saying I absolutely love Derrick and don't think Dawson should be getting time. I am saying that to say Derrick has not improved is simply false. His per 40 and percentage of total numbers, both independent of total playing time, are pretty much better with the exception of the stats that Ners loves to hate on (3 pt %, FT%).
I'm actually all for a 25/15 20/20 split in minutes for Dawson/Derrick, but I just don't like when simple facts are blatantly being ignored.
It is a sad commentary. There is a lot in that radio show. How Buzz evaluates recruits. Deonte running out of gas. How Buzz views his ceiling. Probably what he talked about more than anything. MU's NCAA chances from Buzz's perspective. Adjustments (that some claim Buzz doesn't make) to counter how Butler defended in the first half. If you listen, you can figure out that Buzz and Homer taped that 20 minute segment somewhere else prior and just played it during the show. But instead, it goes to the same frickin argument by the same frickin posters sidetracking another frickin thread with their same endless frickin loop.
Is this some kind of social experiment on your (communal your) part? How many posts about the same topic saying the same thing does it take before the comment board dies? Because if it is, you are doing a helluva job.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 10:46:00 AM
It is a sad commentary. There is a lot in that radio show. How Buzz evaluates recruits. Deonte running out of gas. How Buzz views his ceiling. Probably what he talked about more than anything. MU's NCAA chances from Buzz's perspective. Adjustments (that some claim Buzz doesn't make) to counter how Butler defended in the first half. If you listen, you can figure out that Buzz and Homer taped that 20 minute segment somewhere else prior and just played it during the show. But instead, it goes to the same frickin argument by the same frickin posters sidetracking another frickin thread with their same endless frickin loop.
Is this some kind of social experiment on your (communal your) part? How many posts about the same topic saying the same thing does it take before the comment board dies? Because if it is, you are doing a helluva job.
Sorry, I'll stop.
Do you think the offensive adjustments are something that will work from here on out? Or only against teams that like to switch screens as often as Butler was?
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 10:46:00 AM
It is a sad commentary. There is a lot in that radio show. How Buzz evaluates recruits. Deonte running out of gas. How Buzz views his ceiling. Probably what he talked about more than anything. MU's NCAA chances from Buzz's perspective. Adjustments (that some claim Buzz doesn't make) to counter how Butler defended in the first half. If you listen, you can figure out that Buzz and Homer taped that 20 minute segment somewhere else prior and just played it during the show. But instead, it goes to the same frickin argument by the same frickin posters sidetracking another frickin thread with their same endless frickin loop.
Is this some kind of social experiment on your (communal your) part? How many posts about the same topic saying the same thing does it take before the comment board dies? Because if it is, you are doing a helluva job.
You make a good point. I have been contributing as an enabler, I'm done.
I loved what Reynolds and Buzz said about JJJ. I didn't even notice the defensive handiwork that Johnson was turning in on a guy 6" taller than he is. It makes me excited for next season. JJJ's D is on it's way to being up to Buzz standards.
Yeah me too. From now until the end of the season I will not respond to Ners in any way. A moratorium you can believe in.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 08:53:48 AM
I have made that point before. Assuming everybody returns, Mayo, Juan, Steve, Derrick, JJJ, Dawson, Deonte, with the RS Frosh Duane and the sophomore Luke. I just see next year's team has needing more contributions from the Frosh. Also, define your terms. Will you consider Duane a freshman? Any way you slice it, assuming status quo, there will be 3 seniors, 1 junior, 4 sophomores (1 new to the program) and 5 freshmen (one a red-shirt). There is going have to be contributions from the new guys/young guys.
No, I wouldn't consider Duane a freshman, and I wouldn't think of either Luke or Duane as new guys. By the start of the season, both of them will have around a year in the program, especially practice time. What will be refreshing, however, is that Buzz will have to rely on the talented sophomore class.
I honestly don't expect very much of the freshmen at all, mostly because Buzz doesn't play freshmen. Maybe half a roster's spot worth of contribution, which I'd up to 1.5 if someone transfers.
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:54:18 AM
Yeah me too. From now until the end of the season I will not respond to Ners in any way. A moratorium you can believe in.
Yeah, I just egged him on in a different thread but I am done as well.
Him and mubuzz should have a great time talking to each other.
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:19:21 AM
I guess the point sailed over your head...yet again.
I have flat out said that Derrick is "average at best" and said that Dawson should play more. But I get labelled a "hard-core Derrick backer" because I don't want to turn the starting job over to Dawson.
Ners knows that, but if he acknowledges it, he losses the ability to constantly bitch and whine about it.
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:01:27 AM
LOL...really? "Virtually no improvement?"
He has increased his shooting percentage, his A/TO ratio, his rebounding, his +/-... In fact the only things that he hasn't much improved on is his 3FG% and FT%, both of which are unchanged.
+1 - I was as hard as anyone on Derrick at the start of the season. He's still not a "good" offensive player, he still can't shoot and doesn't draw enough defensive attention, but I think he has improved a great deal this season. I think he started this season with his "hold down the fort" back-up PG mentality from the last two years, but has slowly and steadily has become more of an aggressor. He is looking to penetrate more, he is looking to pass to the interior more and he is pushing the ball in transition more. He's also becoming more disruptive on defense and not just a solid positional defender. All good things.
Quote from: mubuzz on February 06, 2014, 10:35:02 AM
With the amount of minutes he plays of course his stats are bound to go up. When you start as low as he does it's only logical. I feel he is a good rebounder for a guard and plays solid defense most of the time. Those are his only redeeming qualities. His assist numbers are really not indicative of the PG he is...passing the ball around the perimeter to accumulate those stats is very misleading. Besides lay ups, I can honestly say I have seen him hit 4 shots outside of 6 ft this year. On his best day he is a game manager who plays good defense. On his worst days (much more frequent) he is an offensive liability who struggles to get not only himself, but his teammates going. On most top 100 teams he would be playing 7-10 minutes max. He is a fine representative of Marquette though and I wish him lots of success. I just hope this year is his peak for playing time and next year he turns back into the limited role player he was destined to be.
This is my last one..
It really irks me that this point gets touted as the truth in multiple threads. Yes, Derrick gets assists from perimeter passes. However, there have been a few games where posters have broken down the assists credited to Derrick and how the plays developed. More often than not, lately, those assists have come from more than perimeter passes.
Quote from: Henry Sugar on February 06, 2014, 10:55:35 AM
No, I wouldn't consider Duane a freshman, and I wouldn't think of either Luke or Duane as new guys. By the start of the season, both of them will have around a year in the program, especially practice time. What will be refreshing, however, is that Buzz will have to rely on the talented sophomore class.
I honestly don't expect very much of the freshmen at all, mostly because Buzz doesn't play freshmen. Maybe half a roster's spot worth of contribution, which I'd up to 1.5 if someone transfers.
Luke and Duane will play next year, always like kids who sit out a year. They know the system next year, know what school is all about, and are ready to contribute. The frosh next year, I see
Amit Hill playing a big role. I see Pierce as a back-up at most, 10 minutes a game. Shayok and Cohen will be lucky to see the court. But I hope I am wrong, because then MU will have a great deal
of talent.
Quote from: g0lden3agle on February 06, 2014, 10:52:06 AM
Sorry, I'll stop.
Do you think the offensive adjustments are something that will work from here on out? Or only against teams that like to switch screens as often as Butler was?
I too will take the Ners non-enabler pledge
It's not new territory but the adjustments on both offense and defense will be game by game and half by half. It's more than just a hot hand type of thing, its who has the skill set to exploit the deficiency of the other team while minimizing that players deficiency.
Some teams struggle denying the entry pass which means Gardner will get more minutes and will be a bigger asset, when a team doubles in the post or has strong ball denial, Gardner will be moved done for someone like Burton who has a different tool kit. There is not a combination of any kind that will be the "one" IMHO. I think that is part of the angst of the fanbase is the wild difference in approaches it looks like Buzz is just throwing crap at the wall.
I think Pierce and Shayok get some extended run early in the year, just by default. Juan, STjr, and Deonte are it up front until Luke is eligible. There will be a need for a 7 ft'er and another 6'7 forward. I also anticipate there will be more 3 guard looks early, with Todd starting and all of the other guards (Duane, Derrick, John, Ahmed, JaJuan) divvying up the remaining 90 minutes. Fortunately, they all have decent size and Derrick has shown himself to be a good rebounder from the PG position.
Quote from: g0lden3agle on February 06, 2014, 10:43:26 AM
Thanks Sultan.
I'm not saying I absolutely love Derrick and don't think Dawson should be getting time. I am saying that to say Derrick has not improved is simply false. His per 40 and percentage of total numbers, both independent of total playing time, are pretty much better with the exception of the stats that Ners loves to hate on (3 pt %, FT%).
I'm actually all for a 25/15 20/20 split in minutes for Dawson/Derrick, but I just don't like when simple facts are blatantly being ignored.
You guys touting this improvement are basically saying:
He's gone from an "F" student to a solid "D-." The starting point is so freaking low...it would be virtually impossible to not have some improvement..particularly in the way of rebounds and assists with playing time having tripled from freshman year.
Would love to work for one of you guys, as you sure as hell don't expect much. Wow!
Quote from: g0lden3agle on February 06, 2014, 10:52:06 AM
Do you think the offensive adjustments are something that will work from here on out? Or only against teams that like to switch screens as often as Butler was?
Every team is different. Not everybody doubles the post as aggressively as Butler. There are adjustments in every game. How well do the players implement them, can MU hit a shot? It just pleased me to see Buzz draw up something (again) that the other coach wasn't expecting/hadn't really prepped for and then see the team get going offensively. But, if Gardner, Jamil, and Todd simply play to their ability every game, the need for adjustments will be less. IMO, the key to the season going forward and the single greatest reason for the current record.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 11:20:01 AM
Not everybody doubles the post as aggressively as Butler. There are adjustments in every game. How well do the players implement them, can MU hit a shot?
I don't know if it was the coaches, or a freshman getting it, but Burton had a great read in the second half.
Butler brought the help defender from the middle every time. Deonte caught wide post left, recognized the double coming, spun baseline and got a layup.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 11:20:01 AM
Every team is different. Not everybody doubles the post as aggressively as Butler. There are adjustments in every game. How well do the players implement them, can MU hit a shot? It just pleased me to see Buzz draw up something (again) that the other coach wasn't expecting/hadn't really prepped for and then see the team get going offensively. But, if Gardner, Jamil, and Todd simply play to their ability every game, the need for adjustments will be less.
Totally agree. It's far too rare that all three have clicked in the same game. Wish it was happening more often.
Ners,
You've been posting on this topic all season (and getting TONS of minutes doing it), and yet we've no improvement in your posts. When can we expect to see your posts improve as much as Derrick's game has? A bare minimum starting point would be to recognize that Derrick has improved significantly. Others who support Dawson have done so, yet you're so far behind the curve.
Quote from: g0lden3agle on February 06, 2014, 11:24:55 AM
Totally agree. It's far too rare that all three have clicked in the same game. Wish it was happening more often.
We agree. I altered my post after you quoted it. If those 3 had brought it every game so far, the record would be better. They need to bring it the rest of the way.
Quote from: GooooMarquette on February 06, 2014, 11:27:44 AM
Ners,
You've been posting on this topic all season (and getting TONS of minutes doing it), and yet we've no improvement in your posts. When can we expect to see your posts improve as much as Derrick's game has? A bare minimum starting point would be to recognize that Derrick has improved significantly. Others who support Dawson have done so, yet you're so far behind the curve.
Goooo, take the pledge, you will feel so much better ;D
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 08:27:19 AM
Jeff Reynolds: Butler showed a different defense in the first half, doubling the post when the pass arrived. Sooner than anticipated. Adjustments were made in the second half, going to different sets.
- Buzz came up with the 'weave with ball screens' idea for the second half, leading to lay ups.
-Scheme developed at halftime allowed Todd and Deonte to thrive in the second half.
- Difference in last night's game was the coach's and player's ability to make adjustments. MU's were better.
-Substitution pattern: Buzz substitutes based on what the team needs the next 2 possessions. There has been dialogue about letting players play longer. Some need longer to get into the flow.
Buzz: Butler is very sound in their 1/2 court offense/defense.
-First half was like the game at Hinkle. Figuring out how Butler was 'monstering the post' was tough.
-Half time talk...make sure 3 pt shots are the right ones. Make consecutive stops. Discussed the second half adjustments.
-Inbounds defense is different. That causes the long in bounds pass to midcourt. MU has also changed how MU guards in-bounds plays. Not to get steals, but to disrupt other teams in-bounds plays. Zoning inbounds is preventive medicine.
-MU changed how they attacked, Butler has a shell at 16 feet. As soon as the ball goes to the post, hard double team. Better spacing.
Based on this, if Buzz gets knocked for losing other games he gets credit for winning this one. I feel pretty good about the 2nd half of the BE season.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 11:28:21 AM
We agree. I altered my post after you quoted it. If those 3 had brought it every game so far, the record would be better. They need to bring it the rest of the way.
I think Todd, Jamil, and Gardner all step up to their potential, yes it's easier, but I don't think its actually a possibility. I do think Todd stepping up gives everything the best chance as post entry will be easier. However, Jamil commits dumb fouls and Gardner is pretty weak on defense....these are not things as seniors that will be "corrected". So that means Buzz is going to have to strategize for Jamil's limited minutes and find line-ups to minimize Gardner's defensive struggles.
Let's say your right...those three play to their potential....what other two players would you put with them the majority of the time?
Quote from: mu03eng on February 06, 2014, 11:29:37 AM
Goooo, take the pledge, you will feel so much better ;D
Agreed - I too take the pledge!
Thanks guys. Enough of the tired argument.
Quote from: mu03eng on February 06, 2014, 11:33:34 AM
Let's say your right...those three play to their potential....what other two players would you put with them the majority of the time?
Who is hot, who is not, who is MU playing what defense are the opponents in? Taylor gets more minutes against zone. If anybody was playing consistently on both ends, I would automatically include them. Jake and Derrick get the minutes they do because Buzz trusts them to play the scouting report defensively and give maximum effort every minute they are out there. But, IMO, minutes going forward....
Gardner 25-Otule 15. No more Oxtule
Jamil 32
Mayo 30
Jake 25
Derrick 32
Deonte 15
JJJ 15
Dawson 8
JJJ/Taylor Situational/Foul/matchup/zone/randomly getting hot.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 11:46:28 AM
Who is hot, who is not, who is MU playing what defense are the opponents in? Taylor gets more minutes against zone. If anybody was playing consistently on both ends, I would automatically include them. Jake and Derrick get the minutes they do because Buzz trusts them to play the scouting report defensively and give maximum effort every minute they are out there. But, IMO, minutes going forward....
Gardner 25-Otule 15. No more Oxtule
Jamil 32
Mayo 30
Jake 25
Derrick 32
Deonte 15
JJJ 15
Dawson 8
JJJ/Taylor Situational/Foul/matchup/zone/randomly getting hot.
I would like to see Jake down to 15 and 10 for JJJ(I'd like more than that for JJJ but he's too quiet offensively right now)
I'd like Deonte at 20 with Gardner and Jamil taking a few less minutes.
But the ultimate issue I have, is this is premised on Todd/Jamil/Ox playing up to their potential every game....they have not shown an ability to do that this season.
One other thing from the radio show, Buzz did mention Burton was gassed...and he definitely looked gassed against St John as well. I don't feel like his minutes have jumped that significantly, is it just an effort thing? I don't think it's anything bad just surprised.
Quote from: GooooMarquette on February 06, 2014, 11:27:44 AM
Ners,
You've been posting on this topic all season (and getting TONS of minutes doing it), and yet we've no improvement in your posts. When can we expect to see your posts improve as much as Derrick's game has? A bare minimum starting point would be to recognize that Derrick has improved significantly. Others who support Dawson have done so, yet you're so far behind the curve.
Sorry Goo..I'm not the one who fabricates crap to try to support Derrick's performance "superlatives." Here's a breakdown of the "improvement" :
Non-Conference averages - 13 games:
5.15 ppg, 4.46 rpg, 4 apg, 1.46 TO/pg
Conference averages - 10 games:
5.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 4.2 apg, 1.9 TO/pg
If you want to call that "improvement," so be it...I just don't see it...and this doesn't even call into question shooting percentages...I suspect those would look roughly the same as well between nonconference and conference play.
Quote from: CTWarrior on February 06, 2014, 11:03:24 AM
+1 - I was as hard as anyone on Derrick at the start of the season. He's still not a "good" offensive player, he still can't shoot and doesn't draw enough defensive attention, but I think he has improved a great deal this season. I think he started this season with his "hold down the fort" back-up PG mentality from the last two years, but has slowly and steadily has become more of an aggressor. He is looking to penetrate more, he is looking to pass to the interior more and he is pushing the ball in transition more. He's also becoming more disruptive on defense and not just a solid positional defender. All good things.
+1
I was a big basher as well, but he has played very well the last couple games. Early on, he was not doing anything well, including defense. Now he is doing most things well except for shooting the ball.
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:54:18 AM
Yeah me too. From now until the end of the season I will not respond to Ners in any way. A moratorium you can believe in.
Like I had posted in another thread:
Just put him on IGNORE... .IF everyone did that and not engage him, he will be talking to himself and will go away.. I did.. and it is great...
Co-sign NEP (Ners Enabler Pledge)
Quote from: mu03eng on February 06, 2014, 11:29:37 AM
Goooo, take the pledge, you will feel so much better ;D
I took the pledge! Hitting that ignore button sure made it smell a lot less like dead horse in here.
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 10:54:18 AM
Yeah me too. From now until the end of the season I will not respond to Ners in any way. A moratorium you can believe in.
Sultan: All you have to do is use the ignore button. I'm not at that point with Ners but I used the button with willie and it has made my Scoop experience far more pleasant.
I'm not taking sides here. Ners should ignore you, too, if that would help drive him less crazy. Life is too short. This is supposed to be fun.
Quote from: Henry Sugar on February 06, 2014, 10:55:35 AM
No, I wouldn't consider Duane a freshman, and I wouldn't think of either Luke or Duane as new guys. By the start of the season, both of them will have around a year in the program, especially practice time. What will be refreshing, however, is that Buzz will have to rely on the talented sophomore class.
I honestly don't expect very much of the freshmen at all, mostly because Buzz doesn't play freshmen. Maybe half a roster's spot worth of contribution, which I'd up to 1.5 if someone transfers.
Other than Hill, the rest of the freshmen will get very limited minutes. Hill has a chance to play 10 minutes a game.
Duane and Luke will get extended minutes. Actually after listening to Jerry Wainwright drool over Luke, I think Luke will be a better player next year than any big we have had in a long, long time.
Below is the link to IWB's BrewCityBall radio online broadcasts. Take a listen to 2/5/14 Inside the Al-3. It is a long broadcast but they interview Jerry and Shayok and talk about the St. John's, Butler game and internet message boards. A great listen but my main point is that while trying to temper expectations about Luke, Jerry's comments make me think that Luke is the real deal and will be a big time player next year.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/brewcityball
I rarely use the ignore button, but I'm really glad it's there.
Thanks, mods.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 08:27:19 AM
Jeff Reynolds: Butler showed a different defense in the first half, doubling the post when the pass arrived. Sooner than anticipated. Adjustments were made in the second half, going to different sets.
- Buzz came up with the 'weave with ball screens' idea for the second half, leading to lay ups.
- Jake and Derrick were outstanding on defense.
- JaJuan did a nice job of extending the catches (playing defense, forcing him away from the basket) for Woods. JJJ is 6'3.
- NBA scouts think there is a Marquette brand. Tough, versatile, defensively sound.
- Buzz evaluates toughness, athleticism, character, skill set, in that order. For prospective recruits.
-Scheme developed at halftime allowed Todd and Deonte to thrive in the second half.
-Coaches knew going in to season that with the backcourt departures, it would be difficult to replicate back court production.
-Homer still saying 'Nelligan Sports'.
- Difference in last night's game was the coach's and player's ability to make adjustments. MU's were better.
-Substitution pattern: Buzz substitutes based on what the team needs the next 2 possessions. There has been dialogue about letting players play longer. Some need longer to get into the flow.
Buzz: Butler is very sound in their 1/2 court offense/defense.
-First half was like the game at Hinkle. Figuring out how Butler was 'monstering the post' was tough.
-Half time talk...make sure 3 pt shots are the right ones. Make consecutive stops. Discussed the second half adjustments.
-Inbounds defense is different. That causes the long in bounds pass to midcourt. MU has also changed how MU guards in-bounds plays. Not to get steals, but to disrupt other teams in-bounds plays. Zoning inbounds is preventive medicine.
-Todd played all 20 minutes...Jake and Jamil in foul trouble.
-JJJ did a reallllly good job on #31. Showed great maturity in how he defended.
-Derrick is as good a perimeter defender as Buzz has ever coached. Strength, center of gravity, intellect.
-MU changed how they attacked, Butler has a shell at 16 feet. As soon as the ball goes to the post, hard double team. Better spacing.
-Chris is an offensive lineman. What he does doesn't show up in stats. What he does is open space for others by sealing lanes.
-Deonte: Can't be stopped by one man. You can count on him. Needs to have the same presence on the glass as he does offensively. DB was gassed in the second half. When he gets tired, he doesn't 'get in there' to rebound. Can't play 17 minutes and have 2 rebounds. A future double/double guy.
- Buzz doesn't like the amount that he has had to rely on the freshmen. They are still growing up.
-NCAA tourney talk: Gotta go 6-2. 11 conference wins should be enough. Based on history of BCS basketball conferences, only 1 school with 11 conference wins hasn't made it.
Buzz's evaluation is of concern to me and demonstrates the exact problems we are having this season. I have no problem with toughness being the #1 attribute. I would also include character with this. If a kid can't cut it both in the classroom and on the court (take coaching) they shouldn't be here. But athleticism should be the least valuable attribute. Skills should be 1b behind toughness/character. The lack of skills, especially shooting and dribbling are abundantly clear with this year's team. If Buzz and Co. were better able to improve players shooting I wouldn't have as big of a problem with it, or if he played a style of play closer to Louisville's up tempo style. But playing a slow tempo offense with a man half court defense doesn't seem to be the best way to utilize all the "athletes" he covets. Hopefully the style of play matches the style of recruits closer over the next couple of seasons. I can't stand UW, but they have proven you don't need great athletes to be successful.
See, picked an item out of the radio show, started a good discussion. Thanks, River Rat. I noticed that too and wondered when someone would jump on it. The eternal debate is whether to recruit athletes and teach them skills, or recruit highly skilled players and hope their athleticism is adequate. I would argue that on this team, Davante, Jake, and Todd, STjr are more skilled than athletic. I would argue that Jamil, Deonte, JJJ, and Juan are more athletic than skilled. I think the challenge this year is once again finding the right combination. Ideally, a team can get the right combination, even within a player. Rodman, more athletic than skilled. Magic, more skilled than athletic.
Quote from: BenCat12 on February 06, 2014, 01:53:26 PM
Buzz's evaluation is of concern to me and demonstrates the exact problems we are having this season. I have no problem with toughness being the #1 attribute. I would also include character with this. If a kid can't cut it both in the classroom and on the court (take coaching) they shouldn't be here. But athleticism should be the least valuable attribute. Skills should be 1b behind toughness/character. The lack of skills, especially shooting and dribbling are abundantly clear with this year's team. If Buzz and Co. were better able to improve players shooting I wouldn't have as big of a problem with it, or if he played a style of play closer to Louisville's up tempo style. But playing a slow tempo offense with a man half court defense doesn't seem to be the best way to utilize all the "athletes" he covets. Hopefully the style of play matches the style of recruits closer over the next couple of seasons. I can't stand UW, but they have proven you don't need great athletes to be successful.
A skilled team without athletes has a cap on its success however. As does an athletic team without skills of course.
However I guess the philosophy is that you can teach skills, but not athleticism.
Quote from: Ners on February 06, 2014, 12:23:05 PM
Sorry Goo..I'm not the one who fabricates crap to try to support Derrick's performance "superlatives." Here's a breakdown of the "improvement" :
Non-Conference averages - 13 games:
5.15 ppg, 4.46 rpg, 4 apg, 1.46 TO/pg
Conference averages - 10 games:
5.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 4.2 apg, 1.9 TO/pg
If you want to call that "improvement," so be it...I just don't see it...and this doesn't even call into question shooting percentages...I suspect those would look roughly the same as well between nonconference and conference play.
My last comment on Derrick for a while.
First off, to perform a fair comparison, toss out the games against weak teams, which don't tell you a whole lot (10 assists vs Grambling doesn't mean anything useful to me). We've played 16 games against top tier teams (I'm including all Big East games plus Ohio State, Arizona State, GW, SD State, Wisconsin & New Mexico)
Let's split 'em in half, first 8 vs 2nd 8 and look at numbers per 40 minutes (he averaged 33 mpg in the first 8 and 30.1 mpg in the second 8)
First 8 - 7.4 pts, 37.0 FG%, 0.0 3FG%, 53.6 FT%, 5.0 reb, 3.5 ast, 2.1 TO, 0.9 stl, 1.6 A/TO
Second 8 - 8.5 pts, 46.8 FG%, 0.0 3FG%, 36.8 FT%, 4.0 reb, 6.3 ast, 2.8 TO, 2.2 stl, 2.2 A/TO
Significantly improved FG%, Assists, A/TO Ratio, Steals
Slightly Improved Pts/40
Worse in rebounds, TOs, FT%
The stats sorta agree with what I think I see. He's playing with more assertiveness, getting more steals and assists and turnovers (but improving A/TO ratio) and less rebounds as he looks to push the ball.
He still can't shoot, but he's improved his points and FG% by taking better shots closer to the basket (46 FGA attempts in first 8 games vs 47 in second 8).
Unfortunately, his foul shooting has gotten even more wretched.
Doesn't add up to a good player, but certainly to an improved one. He is trying to transition from being a caretaker to a leader, and is having a little success.
One of the things as a fan I know I have trouble with is projecting the future. I figure these guys have been playing forever and how much better are they really going to get by the time they're juniors? I certainly didn't see Blue turning out as well as he did going into his junior year and I tended to think around Jan 1 2014 that "Derrick is what he is and he's not going to change that much." I don't think his skillset has changed much at all, but I think Derrick is figuring out more and more how he can be helpful despite his limitations.
Quote from: BenCat12 on February 06, 2014, 01:53:26 PM
Buzz's evaluation is of concern to me and demonstrates the exact problems we are having this season. I have no problem with toughness being the #1 attribute. I would also include character with this. If a kid can't cut it both in the classroom and on the court (take coaching) they shouldn't be here. But athleticism should be the least valuable attribute. Skills should be 1b behind toughness/character. The lack of skills, especially shooting and dribbling are abundantly clear with this year's team.
I think you have a good point here, and I think Buzz sees it too, and will weight the skills a little more heavily in the future, even if he won't admit it. In the past some of his toughest guys (Lazar, Crowder, DJO, Butler) were quite skilled as well, even though they may not have been looked at that way when they first arrived.
Jarvis Garrett is a typical example. I don't think there is much way that a 5'11" PG would have gotten a second look from Buzz a couple years ago. But with his outside shooting ability, he very well may be willing to that sacrifice.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 02:00:27 PM
See, picked an item out of the radio show, started a good discussion. Thanks, River Rat BenCat12. I noticed that too and wondered when someone would jump on it. The eternal debate is whether to recruit athletes and teach them skills, or recruit highly skilled players and hope their athleticism is adequate. I would argue that on this team, Davante, Jake, and Todd, STjr are more skilled than athletic. I would argue that Jamil, Deonte, JJJ, and Juan are more athletic than skilled. I think the challenge this year is once again finding the right combination. Ideally, a team can get the right combination, even within a player. Rodman, more athletic than skilled. Magic, more skilled than athletic.
FIFY
MEA CULPA. Bencat.....river rat.....old, full brain.......
Quote from: The Sultan of Syncopation on February 06, 2014, 02:12:55 PM
A skilled team without athletes has a cap on its success however. As does an athletic team without skills of course.
However I guess the philosophy is that you can teach skills, but not athleticism.
This is surely Buzz's philosophy, I just don't believe he does this all that well. His most skilled overall players have been JUCO's or guys he inherited from TC. There has not been a great development, of basketball skills, of 3 and 4 year players and this concerns me with his recruiting philosophy.
I agree going too heavy in one direction does cap your success. However, we aren't getting the athletes a "Kentucky" gets and we aren't getting the skilled players UW gets, we are somewhere in between. Yet our success is similar to UW. An example of a guy I really liked that we didn't even go after, was Matt Thomas who is currently contributing for a very good Iowa State team. He is averaging 24 min. and 7 points while shooting 35% from the 3pt line as a freshmen. Granted he isn't the greatest "athlete," but he is skilled. There are 3 or 4 guys on the current roster I would replace Thomas with in a heartbeat if I could.
I hope Buzz does start going after guys who are more multi-dimensional. Duane and Luke are a great start. I haven't seen enough of the other recruits yet to judge them. But I can't wait to see them over the next 3 seasons.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2014, 03:46:57 PM
MEA CULPA. Bencat.....river rat.....old, full brain.......
Ha, no problem. I know what you mean, been there a time or two myself.
I'm with both BenCat and Sultan. You can indeed teach skills whereas you can't teach athleticism. However, I have not seen enough development of basketball skills in the past four years. Some players have improved but not to the level that I would like. Vander is really the only one I can remember completely taking me by surprise. The rest showed marginal development.
If skill development isn't Buzz's strength, then he needs to recruit a few skill guys to balance them out. He needs some snipers and some ball handlers to get the team out of slumps when athleticism isn't cutting it.
I also have noted Derrick's attempt to elevate his game. At this stage, all you can ask is for the effort.
Quote from: elephantraker on February 06, 2014, 04:22:44 PM
I also have noted Derrick's attempt to elevate his game. At this stage, all you can ask is for the effort.
+1 He has seemed to be playing better defense lately, especially in denying the ball, was borderline great against Dunham and Cotton. Curious as to why he didn't play against Harrison for 25+ minutes. He also has been much better at getting into the lane. I just wish he would "try" to shoot a perimeter shot once in awhile. A little confidence could go a long way for him.
Quote from: BenCat12 on February 06, 2014, 03:59:51 PM
This is surely Buzz's philosophy, I just don't believe he does this all that well. His most skilled overall players have been JUCO's or guys he inherited from TC. There has not been a great development, of basketball skills, of 3 and 4 year players and this concerns me with his recruiting philosophy.
On the one hand, it is hard to argue with his results.
On the other, I sure wish we could shoot better.
Quote from: The Sultan of Serenity on February 06, 2014, 02:12:55 PM
A skilled team without athletes has a cap on its success however. As does an athletic team without skills of course.
I think that Buzz recruited to a particular strategy that went beyond simply preferring athletes over skilled players. Buzz wanted a team of long versatile players who could take people off the dribble and drive to the hoop with the intent as much on drawing fouls as making clean baskets. And yes he placed that type of game above kids who had a good stroke from 3. In Buzz's numbers oriented mind this strategy makes a lot of sense. Each foul is not only 2 high percentage free throws as well as a chance for at 3 point play but you're also depleting your competition by hanging fouls on their players. The problem is that when you start competing with elite top 10-15 level teams they have players that are as quick as you, can guard your guys AND can shoot.
I'd love to see us get more good shooters because I believe you need both slashers and outside shooters. The problem on the current team is not so much that they can't shoot. We haven't been real great at that in several years. The problem is that now not only can't we shoot but our guards can't drive either. You can be successful not being able to do one or the other but if you can't do either you really have no offense. You become way too easy to guard because there is nothing to stretch the defense or get it moving. On the games where our offense has looked good like the first half of New Mexico its been because Derrick was driving instead of standing around the perimeter passing. Tuesday night the same thing, the offense took off when Todd started driving it to the basket
I'd
Very well stated.
Quote from: GooooMarquette on February 06, 2014, 11:34:04 AM
Agreed - I too take the pledge!
I am in on this pledge as well.
Quote from: CTWarrior on February 06, 2014, 02:26:19 PM
My last comment on Derrick for a while.
First off, to perform a fair comparison, toss out the games against weak teams, which don't tell you a whole lot (10 assists vs Grambling doesn't mean anything useful to me). We've played 16 games against top tier teams (I'm including all Big East games plus Ohio State, Arizona State, GW, SD State, Wisconsin & New Mexico)
Let's split 'em in half, first 8 vs 2nd 8 and look at numbers per 40 minutes (he averaged 33 mpg in the first 8 and 30.1 mpg in the second 8)
First 8 - 7.4 pts, 37.0 FG%, 0.0 3FG%, 53.6 FT%, 5.0 reb, 3.5 ast, 2.1 TO, 0.9 stl, 1.6 A/TO
Second 8 - 8.5 pts, 46.8 FG%, 0.0 3FG%, 36.8 FT%, 4.0 reb, 6.3 ast, 2.8 TO, 2.2 stl, 2.2 A/TO
Significantly improved FG%, Assists, A/TO Ratio, Steals
Slightly Improved Pts/40
Worse in rebounds, TOs, FT%
The stats sorta agree with what I think I see. He's playing with more assertiveness, getting more steals and assists and turnovers (but improving A/TO ratio) and less rebounds as he looks to push the ball.
He still can't shoot, but he's improved his points and FG% by taking better shots closer to the basket (46 FGA attempts in first 8 games vs 47 in second 8).
Unfortunately, his foul shooting has gotten even more wretched.
Doesn't add up to a good player, but certainly to an improved one. He is trying to transition from being a caretaker to a leader, and is having a little success.
One of the things as a fan I know I have trouble with is projecting the future. I figure these guys have been playing forever and how much better are they really going to get by the time they're juniors? I certainly didn't see Blue turning out as well as he did going into his junior year and I tended to think around Jan 1 2014 that "Derrick is what he is and he's not going to change that much." I don't think his skillset has changed much at all, but I think Derrick is figuring out more and more how he can be helpful despite his limitations.
This is a nice statistical study and, I believe, a relevant one.
And that's coming from an observer whose view on Derrick is closer to that of Ners than to that of Derrick's more ardent supporters.
I just don't state my view on Derrick's limitations 30 times in every thread ;), and I admit when somebody presents good evidence that might explain something I didn't consider before.