Butler Basketball: Assessing potential strengths for the Bulldogs in 2018-19

DETROIT, MI - MARCH 16: Head coach LaVall Jordan of the Butler Bulldogs shouts against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the first half of the game in the first round of the 2018 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Little Caesars Arena on March 16, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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CINCINNATI, OH – JANUARY 02: Jordan the head coach of the Butler Bulldogs gives instructions. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Depth and Balance

Even though Butler basketball had to bid farewell to Tyler Wideman and Kelan Martin this offseason, the entire rest of the roster returns. And while the return of star guard Kamar Baldwin is incredibly important as he represents an excellent two-way threat, the biggest roster strength for the Bulldogs lies in their depth. Not only does the team return seven players who averaged 15+ minutes per game last season but they also have a few sophomores who could see substantial roles (David, Brunk, Tucker).

To break it down further, the most pressing issue regarding rotations for Coach Jordan will not be finding potential rotation players but narrowing down and finetuning his rotation throughout the year. The team has a strong balance with some defensively oriented guards, a bonafide star in Baldwin, and 3-point shooting up and down the roster. Because of this depth and balance, Butler’s offense could be very potent during this upcoming season.

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Even if opponents are able to key in on Baldwin defensively, there are plenty of other scoring options. Specifically, players like Jorgensen, McDermott, and possibly Tucker have the ability to score in bunches from inside and out. In addition, even though Butler may struggle with interior defense, both Nate Fowler and Joey Brunk could prove to be better scoring big men compared to Wideman.

With Butler’s ability to use multiple different players as shooters, drivers, and post finishers, it could be more difficult to stop Butler’s offense that many project. Of course, the loss of offensive superstar Kelan Martin will be difficult to replace but this is something that could be made up for with many individuals stepping up collectively.