Butler Basketball: Keys to success at Seton Hall in 2019-20

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 15: Kamar Baldwin #3 of the Butler Bulldogs handles the ball during a game against the Seton Hall Pirates at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 15, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Seton Hall defeated Butler 78-70. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – JANUARY 15: Thompson of the Bulldogs handles. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

1. Thompson needs to be on his game.

Butler isn’t Butler without Aaron Thompson. This might not be the ideal situation but it is what it is. Thompson is pivotal to Butler’s success on both ends of the floor and his health will determine how far the team can go this season. The junior point guard has already missed 4+ games this season and the difference in the Dawgs’ level of play with him on the court vs. without is astronomical.

Kamar Baldwin is the household name headlining Butler’s roster but Thompson is the quintessential leader and glue that holds everything together.

Thompson’s impact is felt on both ends of the floor as he drives to the team to reach its ceiling. As an individual, he is an All-Big East level defender with the ability to limit just about any perimeter scorer below his season average. His coverages this season have ranged from defending Myles Powell all the way to Alpha Diallo. Additionally, his vocal leadership on the defensive end of the floor is crucial as he calls out switches and reads constantly.

On the offensive end of the floor, Thompson is definitely limited as a scorer but still plays a crucial role. Despite rarely taking (or making) 3-pointers, Thompson is elite in the pick-and-roll and is consistently able to probe the inside. Once in the paint, he is a great decision-maker with the ability to find the open man.

He recognizes defensive schemes quickly to devise the right offensive play to create a look. Perhaps most importantly, Thompson’s ball-handling and creation allow Kamar Baldwin to excel in his true position of off-guard.

Thompson has been dealing with concussion symptoms for the past week after already missing games earlier in the conference schedule with a wrist injury. He will be returning to action for this contest with Seton Hall and the Dawgs need him to immediately perform at his usually high level on both ends of the floor.