Who do you want to see start at the 5?

[tower912]

When healthy, I prefer starting Otule and bring DG off of the bench.   Just my opinion.    I like starting defense and bringing offense off of the bench.    The first few minutes are sluggish, the big fella comes in at the first TV TO and the atmosphere changes.    If you do it the other way, and still start out sluggish, what changes for the better when you bring in Otule?    I think the ideal minute breakdown is 15-18 for Otule and 22-25 for DG, with adaptability based on fouls and game flow.     But Otule starts. 

[brewcity77]

Otule because you set the tone with defense and he gives you a chance to win the tip, and every possession matters. I agree that Gardner will probably get a few more minutes, but I still think Otule should start.

[Canned Goods n Ammo]

I agree with this.

It gives Gardner an instant green light on offense.

To open a game, I'd like to get several players involved offensively and move the ball around.

Once DG comes in off the bench, give him as many low post looks that he can get.


Also, Buzz isn't afraid to play match-ups on any given night, so Otule might get 28min. one night, and might only get 15 the next. All depends on the opposition.

[LAMUfan]

agreed, Ideally you get Gardner in against the other teams starter early though because he tends to put people in foul trouble which can mess with there rotation going forward.  Early fouls on the other team are nice.  

[jsglow]

Chris starts, in part because of his leadership responsibility.  DG and Mayo are the first two off the bench and will both play 20+ minutes in competitive games.

[bilsu]

Otule starts, but Gardner gets twice as many minutes. The ideal thing would be to have Otule draw a foul on the opposing center and then bring Gardner in. I think, especially early in the season, that you will see Otule limited to playing three minute strectches. I think one of the biggest benefits of having Otule is that Gardner now practices against a true center.

[Hards Alumni]

Otule starts, but Gardner gets twice as many minutes. The ideal thing would be to have Otule draw a foul on the opposing center and then bring Gardner in. I think, especially early in the season, that you will see Otule limited to playing three minute strectches. I think one of the biggest benefits of having Otule is that Gardner now practices against a true center.

I can agree with some of this, but I think a lot of people are underestimating CO's ability to get put backs and score.

Honestly, I think the split is more like 50/50 but obviously they will both be on the floor off and on.

[Bocephys]

It's got to be Chris just so we have a chance at winning the tip.

[BubbaWilliams]

Are they both healthy? If so, I would agree with the board and start Chris.

[LloydMooresLegs]

As for playing time, I think there may be a few opponents where it will be beneficial to have CO play more because his post D will be needed.

[Silkk the Shaka]

Definitely Otule, for the tipoff alone.  Then as a rule of thumb (obviously change based on matchups and foul situations, etc.) play 12-18 while Davante gets 22-28.  I'd like to see Davante put up at minimum 10 shot attempts per game this year, which would include trips to the FT line (2 FTs not from an "and one" = 1 attempt).  But I like having not just a shot at winning the tip, but a very good chance at it, as well as starting with D and wearing the other starting big man down for Davante to come in fresh and feast on.

[Canned Goods n Ammo]

I think Jamil could win some tips if that is really a concern.

[Daniel]

Otule will start at the 5, I am sure.