I think people put way too much stock in experience. Talented Freshman play all over the country...and love TA and MH, but defaulting to either of them for end of clock situations rarely worked. We will have a major upgrade in talent next year, a major upgrade in system, and an excitement around the program which is palpable, whether or not Smith signs on. I believe momentum is a very real thing not only in games but in seasons....and from the Winthrop game on, the 16-17 Illini never recovered.
Next year will be the first time players really play players...there is no upperclass loyalty. I don't think its too outrageous to see DJW stay and play due to his skill set, Black still plays but probably just be a disrupter and don't worry about fouling out, we aren't expecting you to play 25 minutes a game anyway. Play 12-15, have 5 rebounds, 6 points, frustrate the opposition, and collect 3 to 5 fouls in that time. He may or may not like that role.
JCL may also be one regular who sees minutes reduced because of his lack of dribbling ability. Now, he may come in and score 12 points in about 8 minutes of critical play, but he's like those 4th outfielders the Cubs used to have that everyone loved (Reid Johnson, Sam Fuld, Tony Campenella)..great in a limited role, but extended time gets exposed. he'll have a critical role, but is he willing to stick around and average 8 points in 15 minutes as a junior and senior? He seems like a well adjusted young man, so maybe he is.
I'll be disappointed in anything lower than a 5-8th place and squarely in the tourney.
You know, I've seen so many people say completely different things regarding how JCL will fit into the system. From actual Illini writers to bloggers, people either think he had the most upside to do well in it or that he will struggle the most.
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