Busting Brackets
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Butler Basketball: Previewing Christian David’s impact for 2019-20

By Lukas Harkins

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 02: Eric Paschall #4 of the Villanova Wildcats goes up with the ball against Christian David #25 of the Butler Bulldogs in the second half at the Wells Fargo Center on March 2, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Villanova defeated Butler 75-54. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 02: Eric Paschall #4 of the Villanova Wildcats goes up with the ball against Christian David #25 of the Butler Bulldogs in the second half at the Wells Fargo Center on March 2, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Villanova defeated Butler 75-54. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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PITTSBURGH, PA – MARCH 21: The Butler Bulldogs mascot is shown. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – MARCH 21: The Butler Bulldogs mascot is shown. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

On the defensive end…

Christian David might not be an elite-level defender but this is where he has shown the most value to this point in his career. Due to his size, athleticism, and strength, David can defend positions 2-through-5 when he is on the court. This versatility is incredibly valuable and he has shown strong instincts on this end of the floor.

Despite barely playing over 10 minutes per game last season, David led the team in total blocks (14) and block rate (5.0%). This might be saying much considering Butler’s overall rim-protecting deficiencies, but it is worth noting. Additionally, his effort inside as a defender is evident on film as well.

David has a tendency to be a bit over-aggressive, as evidenced by his high foul rate of 4.2 FC/40, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. David will not be a starter this season and it is definitely better to have a high-energy reserve than one that lacks effort.

David’s path to playing time this year centers around the steps he takes on the offensive end of the floor but there is still value to his defensive play. David’s size and athleticism make him an ideal candidate to see more playing time against specific opponents due to his ability to win individual matchups as a defender.