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[QUOTE="reedny, post: 1643672, member: 1423"]
No doubt there will be some growing pains in the back court at both ends. We're spoiled this season, with 2 guys who are not only scoring 30 ppg, but also defending as well as any back court in recent memory (going back to MCW and triche).

Next year, if opposing guards drive the lane, they'll have to score over a guy who's almost 7-3 and can jump! Size like that can make up for some guard penetration. But there's also perimeter defense to worry about. There I think we may see a dip, at least early. Battle's a frosh and MR's not a great defender ... he's ok m2m. But he often fails to get out on shooters and gets beat consistently on the base line. Some of that is not understanding the zone .. and some of it is trying to play SF at 6'6.

Next year, I'm expecting MR to play mostly SG. That will still be a challenge defensively, as opposing guards may get by him, or make him pay if he doesn't close out. But at least he won't be trying to cover two spots or compete with bigger ACC forwards for rebounds. As far as Battle on D, that's an unknown. From what I've heard (Tee/RF can chime in), his athleticism and defense at the HS level are respectable. On balance, I think you're right ... at least for the first 15 games. Then we'll see.
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