Watched it on my DVR. Newton is the same guy we've seen here the last three years. Thankfully we can use DJ and Lykes to "spell" him. Lykes is a handful on defense and he's not afraid to shoot. Liked what I saw but I wonder how he does against a Trevon Duval or Joel Berry. DJ didn't show much today so he needs to step up as the season progresses. Coach L trusts him because he was on the floor most of the first half and was the only player who stayed on when the second team came on.
Bruce Brown is frustrating. He is hella athletic with hops as good as any in college ball. Newton tried three or four lobs for him even when there wasn't really space for the lob. But, he still can't shoot and he's not a great finisher. Lonnie Walker looks lost out there. Maybe the ankle or knee is still bothering him. So far, he's been just another guy. Dewan Huell is much improved on offense, but will he be able to stand up against premier bigs??? This may be the difference this year. Sam Waardenburg was a surprise, scoring around double digits, but he often looks awkward and weak out there. Amp Lawrence did nothing. He and Izundu haven't really done much this year and that's surprising.
This team plays good defense most of the time, but they also allow a few head-scratchingly easy buckets (layups, wide open threes). But, there are times they look like they did a few years ago when the team was really long and all arms. They aren't as long, but they get their hands on a lot of passes. On offense they lack spacing when DJ isn't shooting well. That and rebounding will be challenges. This is a Sweet 16 capable team.
