3. The Wildcats need Quade Green back
Big Blue Nation was excited to see Jarred Vanderbilt on the court last Tuesday. Now, while the freshman from Houston had a solid debut, his presence at this time is not as vital as Quade Green‘s. Not having Green on the floor has been a serious blow to this young Kentucky basketball team.
Green is a floor general. He may only be a freshman, but he provides leadership for this team. Aside from PJ Washington, Green is the guy who can take the reigns for this year’s UK squad. Gilgeous-Alexander has filled in admirably, and in fact has raised this draft stock to the point where he may be considered as a first-round pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.
SGA’s sudden rise to stardom not withstanding, the Wildcats need Quade Green. Green provides the Cats with a perimeter threat. He may be the best outside shooter on this year’s team. He shoots and plays with confidence, he’s a solid ball-handler and he’s someone who Cal can count on at the end of games to sink his foul shots.
Calipari said this week that Green is likely a game-time decision. Even if he plays, I would expect that Green would come off the bench in relief of Gilgeous-Alexander. Now, once he returns to full strength, look for Green to regain his starting role on the team. If Green can give the Wildcats 10-15 minutes, their chances of winning will go up dramatically.