Kentucky basketball: 5 Rushed reactions vs Arkansas

2. Kevin Knox complete offensive performance

Just when all of BBN started questioning how the heck Kevin Knox can be a lottery pick: BOOM! What a complete, well-rounded offensive performance by Knox. He was able to knock down 3-point shots and perimeter jumpers. Knox picked his moments where he posted up on the block, then scored in the post. He was also able to get out in transition and score in the open court.

Tonight’s game was a great illustration of how difficult it can be for other teams to defend Knox. If you try to put a smaller defender on him to lock him down on the perimeter, then he’ll post you up. If you try to challenge him with size, he’ll operate on the perimeter and in the open court. When teams try to use physical, stronger defenders on him, Calipari hits them with the dribble drive and dribble hand-offs.

When Knox plays with confidence and let’s the “game come to him”, he’s incredibly difficult to guard. This is why NBA executives are targeting him as a potential lottery pick. It’s great to see his offensive arsenal continue to expand.

He went through a slump earlier this season because he was too limited. It was too easy for conference teams to defend him and take away his jumper. But once he had some success in the post, then some success on dribble drives, it opened up the court for him. I’m as guilty as anyone else in doubting Knox as a legit NBA player. But tonight’s game was definitely indicative of the NBA scoring potential he possesses.