I think the issue with this team is that although

[OttoMets]

Who's gonna Dive on the floor for loose Balls and bust their Hump rebounding? Who has the refuse to lose attitude?

This is my concern. Who wants to work hard at defense and rebounding?

The only guy on last year's team who put forth that kind of effort is no longer here. I hope Scoop, Joseph, and Triche can channel their inner 2010 and remember what makes a great basketball team.

 

[edowd26]

Hey edowd26 -- that your Boston terrier? Cute as can be. Had two of them in my life---smart, loyal, well behaved canines!

Yes, she's almost 2 now. Most fun dog I've ever had. Ball of energy, never seen a dog so excited to see me when I come home.

 

[Knicks411]

Last year's team was 16th in the country in defensive efficiency. The year before they were 18th. They'll definitely miss the rebounding from Rick, but I don't really think the defense was all that different from 09.

 

[edowd26]

The problem is I just don't see a 5th year senior suddenly making huge strides in decision making.

This may be true, but people who are capable of filling that position will have improved. A sophomore moving up to a junior is capable of a big step. A freshman to sophomore will take even a bigger step. What makes this team complete is the capacity to put out 4 very talented players into the point guard position. How does one prepare for that?

 

[OttoMets]

Last year's team was 16th in the country in defensive efficiency. The year before they were 18th. They'll definitely miss the rebounding from Rick, but I don't really think the defense was all that different from 09.

The numbers tell me differently, but I didn't see it. Scoop, Triche, and Waiters were way more passive at the top of the zone than Scoop, Triche, and Andy were the year before. Hands at their sides, not getting to the high post, that kind of thing. They didn't play defense with the same urgency.