Kentucky Sports Radio
[Moderated by Matt Jones, Drew Franklin and Tyler Thompson]
[Moderated by Matt Jones, Drew Franklin and Tyler Thompson]
Barring a recruit or two entering the mix over the next month or so, the Kentucky roster is essentially set for next season as Brandon Knight, Terrence Jones and DeAndre Liggins have all made their decisions. The next logical step in 2011-12 prognostication now becomes who will start for a team that will be deep and talented and, more importantly, very versatile. The Kernel’s Aaron Smith struck first with his take on potential starting lineups next season and presents a handful of options that all appear to be appetizing in various ways. And that’s a very good problem to have.
Here is the starting lineup I think Kentucky will roll out to start the season:
Marquis Teague
Darius Miller
Michael Gilchrist
Terrence Jones
Anthony Davis
If there’s a bone to pick with this lineup, it’s the omission of Doron Lamb. Lamb should be ready for a breakout offensive year as a sophomore and I expect that he’ll play starter’s minutes as Calipari uses varios combinations throught the game in the backcourt and on the wing. I can’t see any situation though where Darius Miller doesn’t start as a senior and Michael Gilchrist, who could be the best player on the team (no disrespect to Anthony Davis), comes off of the bench. This lineup would be lethal in the dribble-drive as they create open looks for five guys who can knock down an open jumper and finish around the rim and would be formidable on the defensive end. In fact, it might be the best rebounding starting five in the country. I think it’s the most complete grouping that the Cats could put on the floor and I like the offensive burst Doron Lamb could provide off the bench.
But is this what Calipari will choose to start with? Your guess is as good as mine. And your guess is exactly why we’re posting this today. Let’s speculate. Who do you start next season and why? If Twitter is any indication, there are a lot of big believers in Doron Lamb. Let’s hear it.
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Bill Keightley Report : Never to be forgotten.
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May 9th, 2011 at 12:05 pm
me b 1st
May 9th, 2011 at 12:05 pm
Brandon Knight currently #3 on yahoo’s trending now
May 9th, 2011 at 12:06 pm
I don’t care who starts, I just want to punish some teams and make the others cry.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:08 pm
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
Gilchrist first off the bench. Lamb and Miller are both better offensively and Gilchrist will provide awesome energy off the bench. Next, Wiltjer. Hopefully Hood or Lacey will give us some solid minutes for a sick 8 man rotation. Lots of pressing, lots of dunking, lots of winning. CHAMPIONSHIP!
May 9th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
pg Teague: Pure PG who will got nuts with all these scorers around hime. May break single season assist record. Only option.
sg Lamb: Big time shooter will be a better defender and ready to cary the load from the outside and has an amazing mid range game.
sf Miller: Has to become more reliable and not do his disapearing act every other game. Will get the start from Cal to help with his lack of confidence and for his experience.
pf Jones: Will be our muscle in the paint. Hopefully he will tie his left arm behind his back this summer and develop a right hand. Beast on the boards. Probably our top post option on the half court set other than maybe Wiltjer.
C Davis: Beats out Wiltjer for the starting 5 due to his defensive ability. Camby type shot blocker. Will score on a ton of run outs. Kid runs the floor like a deer.
6th man Gilchrist: Probably the most complete player on the team. Top defender who will get 2nd the 3rd most minutes on the team. Only comes off the bench because he has the attitude to handle it, plus will be a great energy guy off the bench. Will probably also get a few starts on the season. Gets more minutes than Miller.
Backup 4/5 Wiltjer: Kid will get plenty of minutes at both bigs. Also will flourish in the pick n pop. Kid can shoot it.
“The Waterfountain”
May 9th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
I think it is this
Teague, Lamb, Gilchrist, Miller, Davis…..
I think we will learn a lot about Jones this year…. last year there was no choice, he had to play, we didnt have enough people. This year, it going to be much more competitive and much more talent and I dont know if I can see TJones OUTWORKING anyone, I would love to be proved wrong but I want to see how he reacts to having to bust his ass to play. Still having a team that has Teague, Lamb, Miller, Jones, Gilchrist, Davis, Wiltjer, and I think Vargas and Poole will greatly improve and I think we will add Lacey…. talk about nasty…. lol Teague, Lamb, Lacey, Miller, Jones, Gilchrist, Davis, Wiltjer… Thats just NASTY!!!
May 9th, 2011 at 12:13 pm
Reason Lamb comes off the bench is because he can take out 3 players…Teague, Miller or Gilchrist. Lamb plays both 1 and 2 positions, so he is better served being used as the guy who can take out any player 1-3.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:14 pm
… Okay ill say it.
Darius Miller arguably shouldn’t have been starting this year because both Lamb and Liggins were much better. Plus he underachieved most of the season ESPECIALLY in big games.
————–
I cant see any reason to start him over Lamb. I mean seriously Cal has to draw the line somewhere. Play him starters minutes, but don’t start him again. He really hasn’t earned the right to start over Lamb.
————–
If it’s fair to reward him for being around for 4 years then it’s equally to fair to reward Lamb for coming back.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:14 pm
Day One:
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
Mid-Season:
Teague
Lamb
Gilchrist
Jones
Davis
May 9th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
You have to go with the obvious Teague, Jones and Davis. The 3 spot should start the season with Miller as our senior leader and go with it as the season progresses, if he disappears the job goes to Gilly. The 2 spot should be Lamb as you need a high threat offensive player on the court to do the scoring.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
I agree. No way Gilchrist or Miller are coming off the bench. Gilchrist is too good, and Miller is too fragile. He may shut down all year if he gets benched.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
Lamb
Miller
Gilchrist
Jones
Davis
Teague is the weakest of the Top 6, Lamb can handle the ball.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
It’s going to depend on who we are playing and who is working hard in practice. Cats will have 7 players who can start, 8 if we add Lacey, and maybe even another come the start of spring semester. I think it is going to be a very good problem to have. If I really had to guess it would be Teague, Lamb, Miller, Jones, Davis.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:17 pm
no.9 is right
May 9th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
Personally, I like:
Marquis Teague – PG
Doron Lamb – SG
Darius Miller – SF
Terrence Jones – PF
Anthony Davis – C
Then, have super-sub Michael Gilchrist fill in at either forward spot, with an improved Hood, Poole or Trevor Lacey coming in to to play SG or SF. Vargas will get time at Center and Wiltjer will probably get some time at the 4 spot. Personally, I just really like the idea of starting 3 veterans so much more than 3 freshman.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
9. I believe that Lamb and Miller are going to be the go to scoring threats next year, and that Miller is going to have a GREAT season. Hope I’m right, but even if wrong Gilchrist will be there to dominate. #unfairadvantage #WINNING
May 9th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
The starting lineup on the post is definitely what I would go with starting the season out but just for speculation could anyone see a possible 5-in-5-out scenario say if Lacey does end up coming and also throwing Beckham in there whenever he gets eligible?
1st 5:
1)Teague
2)Lamb
3)Miller
4)Jones
5)Davis
2nd 5:
1)Beckham
2)Lacey
3)Gilchrist
4)Wiltjer
5)Vargas
May 9th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
Gilchrist isn’t good enough offensively to keep Lamb on the bench.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
Miller is not as good as the freshman comming in this year
May 9th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
I know Miller is listed as a guard, but really? I can’t remember him playing one second at guard. Not that a 6’7 guard/forward that can shoot the 3 or post up little guards is a bad thing.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
Polson
Hood
Poole
Vargas
With any of the other players rotating the final starting position throughout the season!
May 9th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
Was wondering how many Scholarships we have left to give with Liggins and Knight gone?
May 9th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
The problem with that lineup is defense, and you know Cal won’t play a lineup that can’t defend. Miller has enough problems guarding a small forward, he can’t stay in front of a 2-guard. Add in Teague being a freshman and not yet having the knowledge of what real DEFENSE is, and that’s a lineup that will have issues with good guards. Not saying Lamb was a better defender that Miller, but he’s at least around the saem size and speed of other 2-guards. Miller 3 years ago I’d say yes, but he’s almost 6’8″ and will be around 230 lbs by the time the season starts.
Teague-Lamb-Miller-Jones-Davis
Lamb-Hood-Gilchrest-Wiltjer-Vargas
Starters really aren’t going to matter in the end. You’ll see Lamb play both guard spots, Miller can see time at the 2-4, Gilchrest 3/4, Wiltjer 4/5, Davis 4/5, Jones 3/4
May 9th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
Lamb will be a star next year. He starts at the 2. Miller starts until Gilchrist can unseat him.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:23 pm
Teague, Lamb, Gilchrist, Jones, Davis….Darius deserves to start but can you say he’s honestly better than anyone in the starting lineup at their position? I love the size he could bring to the 2 but we are built on speed and athleticism, why start a guy at an unnatural position where he’s niot better than Doron at either of those two positions, not to mention shooting the ball.(Which seems to be important for a SHOOTING guard). Having a 3 year starter with his talent and size coming off the bench allows for much more vesatility as he could sub anyone from the 2 to the 4 as the first man on the bench. I love Darius but the reason Cal wanted him to work himself into a draft pick was he knew there wouldn’t be a starting job for him if he cam back. Right or wrong Cal is going to take care of the players he recruited first, mainly because they tend to be better than the guys he inherited. Lamb did not come back to UK to be the 6th man again.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
21. can we say championship
May 9th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
Gilchrist will be no.1 pick in NBA draft and he will be the best UK playler on the floor this year
May 9th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
Having Lamb and a true PG Teague coming off the bench is going to dangerous
May 9th, 2011 at 12:26 pm
1. Teague
2. Lamb
3. Gilchrist
4. Jones
5. Davis
I think that would be the best starting 5 we could put out there but I do think to start the season miller willl start the 3 and Gilchrist is first off the bench. The energy and leadership Gilchrist would bring off the bench would be amazing and I do think Gilchrist would be more ok with having to come off the bench then Darius would
May 9th, 2011 at 12:26 pm
22)
FR-Teague, Gilchrest, Wiltjer, Davis
SO-Poole, Jones, Lamb
JR-Hood
SR-Miller, Vargas
Polson and Beckham are walk-ons unless there are openings Cal let’s them use
So there are 3 open schollies
May 9th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
I had the same line-up and think Lamb and Miller will compete all season for that starting spot.
Teague
Gilchrist
Miller/Lamb
Jones
Davis
May 9th, 2011 at 12:29 pm
Either way, this is a great situatin to have to comtemplate. If Wiltjer can contribute at all, and is really the shooter that some say he is, we should be deadly. Throw in of Hood can find his role and stick to it, and Vargas can hold down 6-10 minutes a game just to give breathers, lethal(as oppossed to deadly????)
May 9th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
The starting lineup to start the season I think could be much different than the one we see at the end. We all know Gilchrist has the talent and drive to be the most complete player, but let’s not forget he will still be a freshman in a position that has other options. In fact, because he is so versatile is why I think he will be the 6th man and probably see more minutes than at least 2 or 3 ‘starters’.
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
6th: Gilchrist
May 9th, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Cal has been recruiting Gilchrist since he was in 8th grade. He’s a big reason why Cal hasn’t taken some of these NBA offers more seriously in the last few years, he’s been waiting for this kid. Gilchrist steps into Liggins’ shoes as the best on ball defender we have and he will be the best all around player on the floor. If you think he comes off the bench you’re crazy.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
Don’t forget, Derrick Rose didn’t start at Memphis until about half-way through the season. Food for thought. Knight and Wall started almost because they had two – no other options. This team is stacked so Gilchrist doesnt need to be rushed on the floor in his position.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
Too young again next year to win it all, mark it down.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:33 pm
Start of the year:
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
Gilly could take one of 3 spots at anytime in the year, and keep it. (Lamb, Miller, Jones).
May 9th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
5 – spot on. Nice analysis. Are we bothered by Polson backing up Teague? I believe the addition of Lacey really would make teams cry. So by all means, let’s do that.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
In all my years of being a UK fan, even with the glory years of the 90s, I have never thought I would say this…
It doesn’t even matter who starts.
Think about that. We are so talented and deep that we have the luxury of switching scenarios out of starting another McDonalds All-American over the SEC Tourney MVP. Good Lord, we are going to be ridiculously good!
May 9th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
first cool, worthwhile ad in KSR history…phish 5/5/11!
May 9th, 2011 at 12:35 pm
37 – Exactly, and I think he will. My gut says Cal will keep Darius as a starter because of veteran leadership, so we will likely see “musical sixth-man” between Gilchrist and Lamb next year, with both getting plenty of minutes.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Hey Cat in the Hat, come up with something original. That act gets old or are you not smart enough to come up with something original.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
Gilcrest will start whether its over Miller or beside him is the only question. Here is tale of the tape;
Shooting: Miller,
Ball handling/beating man off bounce: Gilcrest,
Athleticism: Gilcrest, Playmaking/
Passing: Gilcrest,
Post game: Miller,
Motor: Gilcrest,
Rebounding: Gilcrest,
Shot blocking: push,
Heart: Gilcrest
**I truly hope that Lamb does except the sixth man role again that way we can get what both Gilly and Miller bring to the table on the court at the same time stating the game. Gilcrest is a better player now and a better pro prospect but Miller does have experience. I like BTI’s line up so I will go with that one.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
I think Miller should start because he is a 4 year player with HUGE potential. Look at how her performed after the dibacle at Ole Miss. he stepped up his game, became a leader and led the Cats to an SEC tournament championship. Was was the MVP, not Knight, Jones, Lamb or Jorts.
Miller needs to show us that every game. If not, then bench him. But he has earned the rigth to start over Lamb, IMO. His skill set is harder to defend than Lamb’s.
The great thing is that we can now legtimately go big or small and win either way effectively. These are the kind of arguments other teams wish they were having other than who will our coach be or why is every player decomitting.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:38 pm
dont let the talent google those big blue eyes too wide. talent doesnt necassarily tranlate to winning!! i think the miami heat should prove that. besides, carolina will have equal if not better talent and all with experience! just hate to see all the expectations starting before they even arrive and making them failures if they dont win it all.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
That’s a good starting five. It would be great for rebounding, but might lack a bit in quickness. Lamb would provide that overall quickness. I’m not sure right now what Gilcrest’s role might be. He might be a bit undersized to play the 4, (although what weight he has appears to be all muscle.) I’m not sure about his outside shooting if he play’s the 3. Still Gilcrest has a great upside (as does Lamb) We may be like Bill Guthridge’s first North Carolina team with six starters. Wiltjer should give us a solid 7 man rotation. If Vargas could be more consistant, we become a team with a deep, DEEP front line. I’d like to see us have more depth in the backcourt, too. Where does this come from? Hood actually showed some improvement from his freahman year to his sophomore year. He was often the victim of what Tom Leach called, “Buzzard luck.” He possibly only needs a night when his shots are falling to gain some confidence and become a solid contributer. Stacey Poo;e is a tremendous athlete and I think can be a good contributer, if he buys into the system. Tawny Beckum will be eelgible in January and shold help us durring the conference and the postseason. Finally, the best option for backcourt depth is Trever Lacey IF we can sign him. I think he’s good enough to come in and help us right away. I’d also like to get Ryan harrow to transfer here. He could help us to win an NCAA championship next year, by giving us more competition at the PG spot – in practice. He’ll have to wait a year before he actually has a chance to play for a championship. Still, he’d have to sit out a year anywhere he went, and I believe going to Kentucky is his best option to be part of an NCAA Championship team someday. Maybe he leads us to #9.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
Starters:
Jones
Davis
Miller or Gilchrist
Lamb
Teague
Lamb and Teague are the true guards, they will both start… Lamb will back-up Teague at the point, but who back-ups Lamb at shooting guard should be the role UK is looking for Lacey to fill next season. Without him it will be divided between the more small forward types, the tweeners.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:40 pm
I think the mistake is thinking it’s always a 1-1 substitution. There could easily be days when lamb or teague get into foul trouble, and the rotation is shifted up to where miller plays either guard and gilchrist takes the 3 the rest of the game, or knock on wood someone gets injured. Either way I think between teague, lamb, miller, gilchrist, and jones we have 5 people fighting for 4 positions worth of minutes, which should be plenty. Given what an advantage we’ll have at every position in most games, don’t think the assignement of SG or SF is a big deal either: miller may not be a typical 2 guard but he’ll have an advantage at both ends of the floor against most other 2′s.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
I’m pretty shocked at so many people not seeing Gilchrist as a starter. Of the 4 freshman he’s probably the most ready for a starting spot. He brings the athleticism and the defense to have that starting spot. It’s unfortunate that him and miller are both swingmen.
I like the length and rebounding opportunity with Miller as a 2, but can he handle ball handling responsibilities around smaller, quicker players at that position? Can he get out on the break? Help handle a good full court press?
Either way – its pretty awesome to be having this conversation…WE HAVE DEPTH!!!!!!! By the way, I LOVE me some Wiltjer.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
polson
vargas
hood
miller
poole
May 9th, 2011 at 12:52 pm
Starters:
Pg – teague
Sg – lamb/miller
Sf – gilly
Pf – jones
C – davis
Bench:
Vargas
Poole
Lamb?miller?
Wiljter
Lacey
May 9th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
Jarrod Polson
Stacey Poole
Jon Hood
Terrence Jones
Eloy Vargas BOOK IT
May 9th, 2011 at 12:54 pm
I think if Lamb can learn how to play defense in the off-season, then that sort of changes the scenario a bit. I don’t think you can have someone who’s liable on one side of the ball start a game, and that is why we saw him be effective as the 6th man last season. I echo the thoughts of others who think it depends greatly on whoever can mentally handle “not-starting” and can man up and be a team player
May 9th, 2011 at 12:55 pm
What we ought to do is start:
Polson
Poole
Beckham
Hood
Vargas
Let them keep the games close or even let them get us down by 10-15 pts. At halftime, pull em all and put in the big dogs. This will make things a lot more fair. Plus you get the energy factor in the second half. All of the big dogs are fresh as hell and will come out ready to roll. This theory allows for UK to playw/ their food a little bit. Cuz we all know that if we allow the power 7 to start the games and play it’s entirety we will bea everyone by 50 and the season will get boring and unexciting. I’m just sayin….
May 9th, 2011 at 12:57 pm
PG: Teague – Only true point
SG: Miller – Provides experience and his game depends on how he starts off his game.
SF: Gilchrist: All he does is win win win no matter what, he will earn this spot with hard work
PF: Jones – Do you really think he would turn down the lottery to not have this spot promised to him?
PF2/C: Davis – See all-star game clips
6th man: Lamb – More valuable off the bench. He filled that role great last year and will probably see more minutes than Miller. By him subbing in he can play either the 1 or 2 and it keeps him out of possible foul trouble. If he gets a quick foul or two and something goes wrong with teague we would be in a some trouble.
7th man: Wiltjer – Wont see as many minutes as the first 6 but if davis or jones gets in foul trouble we would probably see him be our first sub unless Cal wants to go smaller and put lamb in at the 2 and move everyone else up a spot, which this team is vastly capable of guarding multiple positions.
May 9th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
Cal knows how to keep the egos happy and still serve the team best on the floor. My guess is Miller starts and Gilchrist comes off the bench about 3 minutes into the game, like Lamb did this year. It works only if the mindset of the players are a fit. Miller not starting would probably kill his confidence.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Who will be the 2nd point guard? Could Lamb start at the point and bring Teague off the bench? A PG like Lambe who could get 20+ points anight with all the other weapons. Good lord.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:06 pm
Bacon Double Burger-PG
Taco Gordita-SG
Denny’s Grand Slam-C
Fried Chicken Sandwich-PF
Tossed Salad-SF
May 9th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
I don’t think who starts or doesn’t start is as important as who is going to get the most minutes. If I were to rank the players by who is going to get the most minutes per game it would look like this.
Miller
Jones
Teague
Gilchrist
Davis
Lamb
Wiltjer
Vargas
Hood
Miller played a lot of minutes last year, he might see them decreased but, he is the veteran leader and will see top minutes again. Teague is the true PG much like Knight was our best PG last year he will see more minutes than the other Freshman. The Freshman will see their minutes decline early on due to foul trouble. The GO TO person when the game is on the line is going to be either Jones or Teague.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
PG: Teaque: True point who is able to break down players off the dribble
SG: Lamb: Sophomore who knows system and able to hit open 3′s. Excellent perimeter defender
SF: Gilchrist: Perfect fit for Cal’s system. He is beyond ready.
PF: Jones:
PF: Davis
First sub: Miller for Gilchrst, Wiltjer for Davis. Jones shifts to center.
Second sub: Lacey (or Poole) for teaque. Lamb moves to Pt guard.
By January, we will play 8 (starting 5 plus Miller, Lacey, Wiltjer). Vargas will get spot minutes when there is foul trouble.
Wiltjer as a ‘pick and pop’ with Teaque is going to be difficult to defend, especially with Lamb/Miller on the outside and Gilchrist/Jones/Davis on the baseline.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:10 pm
I’ll probably just leave the starting lineup to Cal, and sit back and enjoy watching #8 come home.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:13 pm
Any starting lineup that doesn’t include Doron Lamb was created by a raving dumbass. Oh, I forgot …
May 9th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
No way will Miller play at the 2. Though you could see this “small” lineup alot.
Pt: Teaque
SG: Lamb
SF: Gilchrist
PF: Miller
PF: Jones
This team could really run. Getting Lacey is key as he will get significant minutes next year and then start in 2013. Lamb will be a 1st rounder.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
based on what I’ve seen/read about Gilchrist – he’ll be a super-sub – w/ minutes at the 2, 3 & 4 positions. Lamb will spell Teague @ PG, just like he did this past season w/Knight. Early in the season, Davis & Wiltjer will likely split mins, due to frosh foul issues. Lamb, Gilchrist, Jones, Davis & Teague will get most mins, followed by Miller & Wiltjer. Teams will no longer see our guys winded near the end of games. Really believe Hood & Vargas will see the floor much more than last year.
No way Lamb comes off the bench; besides TJ, will be our go to scorer, and #1 option on perimeter. Miller & Gilchrist will battle, and will alternate game by game for starting job. Frosh, no matter which position, tend to pick up fouls, esp in SEC games. Older guys will still get plenty of mins.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:18 pm
1.) Teague
2.) Lamb
3.) Miller
4.) Jones
5.) Davis
I don’t have any question that this is what the starting lineup will be on opening day. Regarding some of the other comments:
#6 – This is way off. There is no way that Jones won’t start. There is a better chance of Eloy Vargas starting next year than Jones coming off the bench. Jones could easily be a Top 5 pick in the following year’s draft and was significantly underappreciated by people like yourself last year. He will get all of the minutes he can handle and more next season.
#34 – Not only will Gilchrist come off the bench, but it is the most desirable for that roll. He is also flexible enough that he won’t have a problem coming off the bench. I could see a situation where Gilchrist comes off the bench the entire season, but is still top 3 in minutes. This may not make sense to some, but Gilchrist will get his whether he is a starter or not.
OP – I think Lamb is as much of a “must start” as any of them. He is the best shooter on the team next year. I don’t buy the BS that Gilchrist has to start because he is the most talented on the team. Maybe he is, but that still doesn’t mean he starts. On UNC’s most recent National Championship, Marvin Williams was the sixth man, and many argued that he was the MOST TALENTED on the team, but he came off the bench the whole year.
Many other NBA teams have had players that are Top 3 in minutes and points be there sixth man. Just because Gilchrist is more talented than Lamb or Miller doesn’t mean he starts over them. I think CAL will enjoy bringing a “beast” like Gilchrist off the bench and will want to start a senior who has started the last two years. Also, why screw with Miller’s confidence when Gilchrist would be just fine getting 30 minutes+ per game.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:22 pm
Lamb showed he is very effective off the bench. I would almost say that Coach sticks with that, but if he were to start, then Gilchrist will be the first off the bench. All I can say, we will have a tall line up. A 6’7 guy playing the 2 would just be crazy and hard for almost any school to defend. I’m just hoping that Hood and Poole improve and can give us good minutes. I’m also hoping the same for Vargas, I feel like it will happen. To go even deeper we need more than just a 6 man rotation. We need more contributors so if someone is having an off night, we wont miss a beat. Either way, I cant wait for next season! I am anxious to see how many blocked shots Davis gets, how many 3s Wiltjer knocks down, and how many alley oops Teague distributes. Not to mention, anxious to see if Jones will be our next 1st All-American and if Miller will be All-SEC caliber. Again, I figure UK will have 3 All-SEC freshmen and one will win FOY. Jones can take the POY and Cal should be COY, even though he’s been robbed the past two years. Its really pathetic that he hasnt won it.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
Tom Leach said I had “buzzards luck” being the hockey poster after Ashley Judd!
May 9th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
Don’t be suprised if Gilchrist makes his way into the starting lineup though. Lamb has to start BTI, we have to have him at SG. Miller and Gilchrist will not start together.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
65, agree. No way in hell Darius Miller is out of the starting line up as a senior. He has started his whole career, it wont stop now. Cal will view Gilchrist as someone to take Liggins spot. They say Gilchrist is a beast on defense so he will be taking Liggins spot as the lock down defender. I can see him easily coming off the bench for energy purposes just like he did with Liggins. I really believe Lamb will be a starter, but I have a feeling our line up will change a lot in the beginning. Teague, Miller, Jones and Davis are the definite starters though, no doubt about it.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:31 pm
I’m guessing
-Teague
-Lamb
-Miller
-Jones
-Davis
as well. I believe Cal will go with experience next year and I don’t think Miller will play much at the 2 when he could have Lamb out there at the same time. It will be interesting to see the development of Wloy… I don’t think he has much of a chance of starting but if he can go out there and play big minutes it would allow Davis, Jones and Wiltjer all to use more of their versatility.
I think coming off the bench it’ll probably go Gilchrist, Wiltjer, Wloy, Hood. After that who knows. I don’t think Beckham, Poole or Polson will get big minutes this year with our depth. I think Lamb is more likely to play some point (in real games) before the other guys.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:34 pm
Anyone ever think that they’ll have to earn their spots? That’s my guess. You got lots of talent in the mix, so those that prove themselves will get the spots. You’ve got 3 locks imo: Teague, Jones, and Davis. No one can say with any certainty about the other spots. Cal will put the best Team on the floor. Lots of factors, who’s the better defender, chemistry, all that. In Cal We Trust.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
1. Teague
2. Lamb
3. Gilchrist
4. Jones
5. Davis
bench
1.Miller
2.Wyltjer
Will Hood, Poole, and Vargas do the work this off season to get into serious minutes? Would it be better for a kid like Hood to redshirt?
May 9th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
I am excited like everyone else.BUT we all know as good as these frosh are that they are going to have growing pains.All stars games don’t tell me much(probably because I’m not an expert or even close)but Davis got many of his points just being open on constant fast breaks or lob mismatches.He will get muscled in college.This is where Jones hopefully will come through.I am dissapointed in Wiltjer because he is also weak and very slow.Teague,Gilchrist and Jones(hopefully he changes or doesn’t take many)can’t hit from the outside well.We DO need Vargas,Hood and Poole to step it up to be the Superteam we are making them out to be.We played great with 6 men last year but I just want to see us push the pedal to the metal and blow some teams out!GO BIG BLUE!
May 9th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
Teague, lamb, miller, jones, Davis.
It doesn’t really matter who starts because they will all get there minutes. As we’ve sen before if someone isn’t doing there job on defense cal will yank them just like that. I do believe gilchrist will be the best player on the floor next year when he’s out there. And if anyone thinks hood will get any significant minutes your crazy, the kid cant defend for crap and is to slow. He will never be able to compete at this level unless he tranfers to a low mid major school.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:45 pm
Jon hood = Josh carrier, w
May 9th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
75 coaches and counting!
Make it 76: I’d swap Miller for Lamb.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:53 pm
I think people are being ferociously loyal to miller an individual who has underachieved for 3 years, not to mention Gilchrist was the driving force of constructing this team he wa the player that brought this group of freshman in and has Been the center piece of the hype. Cals game is bringing in great players and Giving them a staring role, that’s his recruiting appeal, bottomline u can’t depend on miller to show up every game which has never been said of Gilchrist at any level. What’s cal always say I’ll take talent over experience any day. If lamb can improve defense and effort he could possibly push Teague for minutes
May 9th, 2011 at 1:56 pm
#9…right on target. Miller doesn’t have the heart to be a big time player, and has had 3 years to get it done. he can watch Lamb and decide if he wants to really be a basketball player or not…and yes, Lamb and Liggins both should have started over Miller this past year.
May 9th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
74, if you’re so right about Hood, then why was he ranked #40 in the class and could have easily been starting at Mississippi or Georgia? Because those schools along with Tennessee were after him. Hood may not get significant minutes this year, but he has been practicing against the best of the best for 2 years, soon to be 3, and will be a contributor his senior year along with Stacey Poole. Those guys will play huge roles in 2yrs. You are quick to right him off but you forget that before the season he showed promise. He is in the role of Darius Miller, he has to have confidence in himself. I think you forget how athletic he really is, he was a high jumper in high school. Hood will come up big for UK in the future.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
And for those doubting Miller, you will see a different player this year. We caught glimpses of how special he can be. Cal says he is going to make him an All-SEC player and I believe he does that this year. He just needs to realize he is the senior and that he doesnt defer to the freshmen, it’s always been his downfall, he doesnt believe he is one of the best. And to the person questioning his heart, you are truly pathetic. He is just a passive guy, he has plenty of heart. Dont even question a players heart…unless it’s obvious like Randolph Morris. Miller will be starting and he will be a key factor in many wins this year.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:04 pm
I said after the Final Four loss to UCONN there was no way I was going to fall into the trap of believing Darius Miller should be in the starting line-up again. After three years of witnessing his disappearing act I’m ready to move on to Doron Lamb. It’s frustrating because with the size and ability of Darius I truly believe he could be the most dominant player on the court night in and night out. The problem is the kid just will not allow himself to be great. If he hasn’t developed the leadership qualities in three years I don’t see them being developed this year to be in the starting line-up over Doron. Bring Darius off the bench and hope “he feels like playing” that day. Too much talent on this roster…
May 9th, 2011 at 2:07 pm
negative #79
May 9th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
If it’s the same Darius we’ve seen for three years, he’ll be coming off the bench by the end of the year, senior or not.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
Is there really anyone on this board that think Gilchrist is coming here to come off the bench when he could have went ANYWHERE and started? Miller is the one who should come off the bench. He never has deserved the playing time he gets. Teague-Lamb-Gilchrist-Jones-davis. that will be our lineup in the National championship game.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:19 pm
I’m a little disappointed to see so many dump Miller to the bench after all he’s given to the Cats. Doesn’t he DESERVE to be a starter in his final year? Hasn’t he EARNED that right? Besides being the only veteran leader on the team that will see significant minutes, he is one of our best PROVEN defenders and rebounders. It amazes me the lack of respect some people in this fanbase can have for a guy just because he has a few bad games offensively.
Gilchrist is the kind of guy that will be happy to be the sixth man, and this leaves room for Miller to rotate to the 2 or 4 when needed, Lamb to rotate to the 1 when Teague needs a breather. There’s no guarantee Jones or Davis will stay out of foul trouble either so we might see a lot of Gil at the 4.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
Teague, Lamb, Miller, Gilchrist, Davis-’Til TJ starts being more solid and consistent, give new guys the chance he already had last year. Gilchrist should not have to wait to start. He is a leader and a tone setter, where TJ is more pouty and individualistic. Lamb will flourish so much more with Teague. Plus, Miller is a more realistic 3 than anything else. No question About Davis.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:35 pm
I feel like everyone is over looking the fact that you dont have to guard whatever position you play. Lamb didnt start last year which left miller/liggins in at the 2. It will be the same next year where you would see miller play more of the 2 on offense and then gilchrist play the 2 on defense.
May 9th, 2011 at 2:40 pm
First; I’ve always felt it was more telling who was on the floor at the END of the game instead of who STRATED. That is a better indicator of who has thier “A” game going in that particular contest.
Secondly, I think we the fans are more interested in who starts. Coaches, I would tend to think,look at playing time on the floor differently. My impression with Cal is that he will have these guys buying into the team concept with a lot of players getting about the same amount of minutes. And just a couple bunched a little above them.
I just see us not losing much with whichever of the top 8 players are on the floor. That will be huge in the fatigue factor. Just as important though is that without a bonafide center, we have several players (Davis, Jones, Wiltjer, Vargas and even Miller) who can bang on a big center without necessarily causing enormous foul issues on oany one player.
I sure like what seems to be taking shape for next season
May 9th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
I feel those that argue about Gilly playing over Miller aren’t truly recognizing how much potential Miller has. He didn’t lose his starting position the last two seasons and that is for good reason (he is developing year after year). Considering Miller is now the only senior besides Vargas on the team, you have to believe in his ability to become the true leader of this team and start on a regular basis. I predict a “break-out” season free of disappearius games, which helps his draft status immensely. He plays with too good of talent not to.
Starters: Teague, Lamb, Miller, TJ, Davis / 1st off bench: Gilly, Wiltjer, Lacey???
May 9th, 2011 at 2:55 pm
Teague
Miller
Gilchrist
Jones
Davis
This lineup and north carolinas (sadly) will be easily the best in the nation. I think it will be great to start miller or Gilchrist at the 2 position, although lamb probably fits there the best miller and gilchrist will be slot bigger than alot of other 2′s in the country will give them a tremendous atvantage on the offensive and defensive end. And I mean jones and Davis are obviously a no brainer. with lamb coming off the Bench we woul maybe have the best 6th man in the country. Which he is used to playing the roll of the 6th man and he also likes doing that so I think he’ll do fine. But what do I know I’m not the coach.
May 9th, 2011 at 3:00 pm
Some people who want to make sure that players get minutes so that they develop are forgetting that 90 or 120 minutes of practice is more effective at development than playing some dinky maac or sec-west team. So long as our bench is full of 4* and 5* guys they will all sharpen each other, and you can get good action 12 deep in practice. Our rotation will be the top 8, minutes divided by matchups, injuries, and fouls.
May 9th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
good points 91. Case to prove your point, Harrelson working against Cousins last year and Enes some this past season
May 9th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
Gilchrist will be the best overall player on our team and be at the best position to affect the most areas of the floor. As the 3 he can go inside and out, rebound, drive to the basket, block shots, move the ball on the wing. For all of you who aren’t sure whether he should start or think he’s better suited coming off the bench you’re going to be shocked to see what this kid can really do. Think work ethic and attitude of Chuck Hayes combined with talent of a top 5 NBA pick. He will alos be in the class of Chuck and PPat as some of the best genuine people to ever wear a UK jersey. We will be extremely deep and talented, but you can’t have your best overall player coming off the bench I don’t care how old he is.
May 9th, 2011 at 3:40 pm
Teague
Lamb
Miller
Jones
Davis
This lineup utilizes three full-time or part-time starters from last season, the players with experience returning. Lamb, Jones, and Miller all started at some point last season and know the offense and what to expect on defense. The obvious omission is Gilchrist. MG is a versatile player who can arguably play 3-4 positions in college. I could see him easily playing the 3 & 4, and at times playing the 2 & 5. His versatility makes him a natural coming off the bench and getting starters’ minutes. Plus, his attitude seems ideal for such a role.
May 9th, 2011 at 3:53 pm
Because of the talent level, if we play 5 guys at once, we will have an unfair advantage. I look for the NCAA to pass a rule to limit UK and UNC to only 3 players at a time on the floor. Except when we play each other.
May 9th, 2011 at 4:10 pm
79, you are right that hood showed promise at the beginning, against a couple Canadian teams that couldn’t beat lex cath. And yes he has practiced against the best for two years but that doesn’t mean he’s getting any better. He was rated #40 (over rated) because he played his high school ball in a very weak western ky for his last couple years of high school. Hood best chance at playing time would be to transfer or wait until we’re beating teams by 30 next year.
May 9th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
i agree with 12 lamb can handle the ball and and no one would ever score on that lineup
May 9th, 2011 at 4:52 pm
We all know the Lineup will change as players progress.How you keep such a large group of super talented players happy is Cal’s biggest challenge and he is the best at team Chemistry.. I hope Lacey ends up coming. Lacey will seriously challenge for a starting spot.. Having a Great time thinking on Line ups knowing that we can put so many variations on the Floor.. Looking for #8
May 9th, 2011 at 5:13 pm
8. Darius Miller won the SEC Tournament MVP. You think that’s a BIG GAME?
May 9th, 2011 at 5:30 pm
Lamb WILL be the best player on the team next. He’ll be the best shooting guard in the country. He’ll lead the team in scoring and be a lottery pick. Gilchrist off the bench.
May 9th, 2011 at 5:33 pm
What I see as playing time for next year (200 total minutes to be played (40 minutes x 5 position):
Teague (30 minutes) – the most because he will have a monopoly on PG unless Lacey comes
Miller (25 minutes)
Lamb (25 minutes)
Gilchrist (25 minutes)
Jones (25 minutes)
Davis (25 minutes)
Wiltjer (20 minutes)
Poole/Hood/Polson (10 minutes)
Vargas (10 minutes)
This isn’t per game, but Poole/Hood/Polson will get a lot of minutes due to a lot of blow outs, so end of season they will average that much.
So who starts? WHO CARES?!?!? UK will rotate 8 1/2 players this year and this will be the best UK team since 1996!
May 9th, 2011 at 7:04 pm
Most, if not all, of you guys have it all wrong. Most assume that Teague will start because he is a “true” point guard and Lamb is not. But if you remember that was knock against Knight this time last year as everyone tried to compare him Wall. In fact, Knight and Lamb a very similar players. Remember, Knight wasn’t exactly setting the world on fire at the beginning of the year and just because Lamb didn’t get a lot of minutes at PG doesn’t mean he can’t play there. Also, there is 0% chance that those who started much of last year will be replaced by an incoming Freshmen at the beginning of the year. This means Lamb, Miller, and Jones are locks at the beginning of the year with the Frosh battling for the remaining two position. Davis should get the 5 because no one else can do what he does as far as defense and rebounding and then Cal will start Gilchrist for the exact same reason. Anyone can play themselves in (or out) of the starting line up as the year progresses but starting out:
1. 6’4″ Lamb – will play PG like Knight next year and shoot the lights out
2. 6’7″ Miller – 2 yr starter with size and good shooting
3. 6’7″ Gilchrist – strong rebounder and shut down defender
4. 6’8″ Jones – POY Candidate for reason you already know
5. 6’10 Davis – best big man on the team
This gives Cal the three things he loves the most out of his teams: Lengthy athleticism, strong defenders, and tough rebounders
May 9th, 2011 at 10:05 pm
98, I’m not talkin about the Canadian games, I’m talkin about the exhibitions where he showed confidence in his shot and can get to the rim. And they dont base the rankings just on high school, its what you do in AAU ball. He has had a lot of talent ahead of him. You guys can doubt him all you want, but his senior year he will be a contributor, maybe even this year. And when Miller starts every game and Hood shows he can contribute, I’ll be ready to laugh in everyones face on here who doubt the Kentucky boys.
May 9th, 2011 at 10:06 pm
82, you’ll see
May 9th, 2011 at 10:29 pm
85…”a few bad games offensively”…really? The problem with Miller is exactly what a bunch of his supporters preach…he is tremedously talented, and COULD be an all american…that is what makes it so much more frustrating, that a kid has all of the talent and potential in the world, but not the desire and heart to achieve it. There are tons of people that would kill to be in Miller’s position and take advantage of what they could in life. He absolutely disappears in games because of his lack of aggressiveness, and was absolutely scared to deaeth at the end of the Ole Miss game, making one of the weakest plays I have ever seen with a game on the line. #89, you are correct that he has POTENTIAL, but POTENTIAL has never, ever won a game in any sport. Heart, desire, and execution is what wins games. Miller has had three years to achieve what he can with his talent..he has disappeared much of that time. Cal has had two of those years to develop him…still disappears. I’m not saying that he absolutely won’t do it this year, but there is no reason to think that he will. Just before the UCONN game in the Final 4, they showed Miller on the bench during into’s…he looked like he was about to puke on the floor…I knew exactly what kind of game this “upperclassman” was going to have, and he proved me correct.
May 9th, 2011 at 11:08 pm
Miller
Gilchrist
Jones
Whiltjer
David
GET BIG
May 9th, 2011 at 11:15 pm
Pg- Anthony davis
Sg-gilchrist
Sf- TJ
Pf- wiltjer
C- Vargas
Vargas puts his jorts on this year and UK plays Monster ball
May 10th, 2011 at 8:44 am
Interesting combinations especially those who believe Gilchrist will NOT start!!! This guy will be the MVP from day one! Miller will only start due to loyalty by Cal to seniors. No way should he be playing in front of any of the other five guys. Anyone with an ounce of BB knowledge should understand the talent level of this group of six players and know which ones should start…this isn’t rocket science period!!!