Purdue Basketball: 2017-18 season preview for the Boilermakers

Starting Lineup – Backcourt

P.J. Thompson, Senior

One of the most consistent guards in the Big Ten, Thompson is very capable of running the Purdue offense. In each of the past two seasons, Thompson has shot over 40% from 3-point land and has mostly increased his production across the board. His 70.5% shooting from the free throw line was a decrease from his 82.8% as a sophomore, but he drastically increased his efficiency inside the 3-point arc.

While attempting 2-point shots last season, Thompson upped his percentage from 47.8% as a sophomore to 57.6%. If this shooting efficiency from inside and out can continue, then Thompson will once again be the most underrated part of Purdue’s rotation.

Carsen Edwards, Sophomore

Joining Thompson in the starting lineup is Carsen Edwards, the only underclassmen in the lineup for Coach Painter. Rated as a four-star recruit out of high school, Edwards was very solid as a freshman last year. Edwards started 21 of the team’s 35 games while posting 10.3 points per game. With a booming sophomore season, Edwards has the potential to take on the role of a go-to scorer this season. Starting in Purdue’s exhibition games this summer, Edwards was excellent, producing several high-scoring outings.

Heading into this season, the hope is that Edwards can increase his efficiency. Last year, he shot 38.2% from the field and 34.0% from 3-point land. In addition, he turned the ball over more than he recorded assists last season. As one of the leading playmakers on the team, he will need to cut down on his turnovers.