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[QUOTE="RF2044, post: 2959799, member: 40"]
I don't disagree with your first sentence, don't agree with your second paragraph at all.

I think it would be a different story if Sidibe had bounced back physically and had a quality year.  He didn't, so the 5 remains a major source of uncertainty heading into next year.

Also, different types of bigs can be system fits for various reasons.  Forth wasn't the same as Watkins, who wasn't the same as Arinze, who wasn't the same as Keita, who wasn't the same as Rak, etc.  Some players provide elite shotblocking, others anchor the middle with strength, others with terrific anticipation / lateral mobility.  Some check several of the boxes in one package [like senior year Rak, Etan, etc.] whereas others excel at their one role, like Baye or Fab.

This kid has the requisite size, it appears that he has good shot blocking instincts, and he doesn't have to be chained to the block in order to score.  Imagine him setting screens and then getting the pick-and-pop pass.  And it sure would be nice having a kid who could score in the box with either hand -- to say nothing of forcing the defense to account for him, which would lead to lots of open kick outs from a terrific passing big man like this to Buddy / Elijah, or other shooters.

Honestly, I don't see the downside.  The 5 isn't the only question mark on next year's team, but this kid would go a long way toward solving it.  And then if Battle returns to play point, or Carey makes the sophomore jump, or Goodine seizes the reins, thereby nailing down the point guard uncertainty, having a big like this might be the difference between having a top 10 type of season versus being a 20 win but double digit loss team again.
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