A Couple of Things

[GGGG]

Agreed mug.  I don't think this team has jelled real well.  But I also think it's talent was a little overrated (Jamil) and too inexperienced (freshman) to make the difference some people thought it would. 

[NersEllenson]

That's what I figured you were thinking.

To me, that has been the real challenge this year...the terrible combination of semi-skilled players (that is, players that are strong in one or two areas, but have notable weaknesses in other key areas)  and players being tremendously inconsistent game to game. While unsatisfied with the results of the season, I actually think this may be one of Buzz's toughest years; he's trying to balance so much. With this lens, I can see why he relies so much (too much?) on Jake (and Derrick to a lesser degree). Jake is 'safe' as he has reliable skills even if they are not to the level we really need, while other players are so high-risk/high-reward...and damn inconsistent. But if Jamil would just be able to step up and be relied upon, man, would that be helpful.

You cannot be consistent when getting inconsistent playing time.  Mayo should have been, and should be a 30+ minute per game player every game.  Oxtule needs to be permanently retired.  Rotation should have been shortened to 8.5 players - Dawson, Derrick, Jake, Mayo, Jamil, Steve, Gardner, Burton, (JJJ) as the 9th man.  Juan and Otule consistently ride bench unless a very favorable defensive purpose for Otule.





Just thinking about it gets me stressed and frustrated. Imagine Buzz's life these days!

[mug644]

You cannot be consistent when getting inconsistent playing time.  Mayo should have been, and should be a 30+ minute per game player every game.  Oxtule needs to be permanently retired.  Rotation should have been shortened to 8.5 players - Dawson, Derrick, Jake, Mayo, Jamil, Steve, Gardner, Burton, (JJJ) as the 9th man.  Juan and Otule consistently ride bench unless a very favorable defensive purpose for Otule.

On the flip side of your comment, I think that the numbers for Gardner, Jake, Jamil and Derrick all indicate that consistent playing time do not necessarily lead to consistent output. That said, I don't disagree with your implication that players have had a tough time finding their 'groove' (and maybe even their ultimate role on the team) this season.