Rhode Island Basketball: Rhody Rams ready to return to Big Dance
How long does it take for Matthews, Martin to get fully healthy?
Health is the number one concern and question mark for the 2016-17 season. The Rams can ill afford to lose one of their top five players.
Suffering new injuries would be a massive blow. However, what about fully recuperating from last year’s problems?
E.C. Matthews, who is coming off an ACL tear, will not take part in full contract drills or five-on-five scrimmages until early September.
E.C. Matthews said he's 'about 80 percent' in his recovery from right knee ACL surgery. On track for full clearance in September. #URI #Rams
— Bill Koch (@BillKoch25) June 30, 2016
There is no concern about Matthews possibly missing the start of the regular season. There is concern about the first year following a torn ACL though.
Does Matthews get his explosive first step back? Will he trust the knee right away? Has his shooting developed while he has been rehabbing? Will he continued to draw contact in the paint and get to the rim throw line? What about defensively?
Meanwhile, Hassan Martin has progressed successfully and is taking part in practice on a full-time basis.
Hassan Martin (right knee) practicing in full. E.C. Matthews (right knee) wearing brace, looks at or near 100 percent in his recovery. #Rams
— Bill Koch (@BillKoch25) June 30, 2016
Martin is obviously further ahead in the process, as he didn’t have to undergo surgery relating to his knee tendonitis. He will be 100 percent in mid-November.
Ultimately, it’s impossible to predict if injuries will manifest themselves. It’s just the luck of the draw, and hopefully (for URI’s stake), they will avoid the bad news.
Next: Is Jarvis Garrett ready to lead?