I just see no other way for it to work in a way that allows us to compete at the highest level with the current roster than to reduce HD to a 25-27 mpg player and KJ to a 20-23 mpg player even as a starter, as well as Harris playing fewer minutes.
Self might not be willing to bring KJ off the bench and we can all agree that we love and need KJ to be an important part of the team but our 2nd half lineup and who finishes games would likely have to include Furphy at the 4, Kugel at the 3, Mayo and Harris. IF Kugel can play up to his talent level next year on both ends then we will have a nice blend of experience, skill and pro level talent. A LOT will be riding on Mayo, Kugel and either Elmarko or Philon being ready to contribute at a high level in the top 7-8 man rotation. Bidunga would ideally be able to provide good post defense for 10 mpg or so as well.
To put it simply, our pro potential talent Furphy, Kugel, Bidunga and either Jackson or Philon will have to play significant minutes and deliver. Defensively it will be a similar issue. Concern with our defense is legit but our best athletes will need to play up to their athletic ability on that end. Lots of work to do but the blend of continuity and age should help this team.
Self might not be willing to bring KJ off the bench and we can all agree that we love and need KJ to be an important part of the team but our 2nd half lineup and who finishes games would likely have to include Furphy at the 4, Kugel at the 3, Mayo and Harris. IF Kugel can play up to his talent level next year on both ends then we will have a nice blend of experience, skill and pro level talent. A LOT will be riding on Mayo, Kugel and either Elmarko or Philon being ready to contribute at a high level in the top 7-8 man rotation. Bidunga would ideally be able to provide good post defense for 10 mpg or so as well.
To put it simply, our pro potential talent Furphy, Kugel, Bidunga and either Jackson or Philon will have to play significant minutes and deliver. Defensively it will be a similar issue. Concern with our defense is legit but our best athletes will need to play up to their athletic ability on that end. Lots of work to do but the blend of continuity and age should help this team.
