When will the Kentucky basketball team be at full strength?
The Kentucky basketball team has not been at full strength all season. Jarred Vanderbilt injured his foot before the season even began, Jemarl Baker has been sidelined with a knee injury and Quade Green has missed the past two games with an injured back. The Cats have fared well so far this season without Vanderbilt and Baker. How much longer can Kentucky continue to thrive without Green?
Make no mistake, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been exceptional in 5 of the last 6 games. The Tennessee loss aside, SGA has averaged 20.2 points, 4.6 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game. That stat line is insane, especially for a freshman. Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 35.2 minutes per game during those 5 contests as well.
However, with Green out the past two games, SGA has been asked to carry the load for the Kentucky basketball backcourt. Shai has played 78 of a possible 80 minutes the past two games. John Calipari has been adamant about playing the best players and referenced his 2008 Memphis team that operated with a short bench.
While Gilgeous-Alexander has shined with the increased playing time, the lack of depth in the backcourt when foul trouble occurs could be a problem. Big Blue Nation loves Brad Calipari, but the coach’s son is not the answer if SGA or Hamidou Diallo get into foul trouble. The lack of depth in Kentucky’s backcourt is a concern.
I suspect we’ll see the debut of Jarred Vanderbilt Saturday night at Rupp Arena against the Florida Gators. Cal said that he wanted Jarred to feel the love from BBN when he first steps onto the court. As for Baker, his return is a bit murky. The initial prognosis had him slated to return closer to March, however, it sounds as if he’s making great progress. I doubt Vanderbilt or Baker will see the floor against the Gamecocks. We’ll see how Tuesday night in Columbia unfolds.