Darryn Peterson, Ven-Allen Lubin among key storylines for Kansas vs NC State matchup

Two of the top storylines collide on Saturday when Kansas visits NC State. First-year head coach Will Wade looks to get his first signature victory at his new school, taking on Darryn Peterson and the Jayhawks, coming off a win over rival Missouri.

Here’s a look at the top storylines and questions heading into this matchup.

1. Darryn Peterson’s second game back

The former five-star prospect missed an entire month due to a hamstring injury, but he had a strong return on Sunday against Missouri, scoring 17 points on 6/14 shooting in the win. While the Jayhawks have been fine without him, Peterson’s return to the lineup makes them a threat to make a run in March. The Wolfpack, whose defense has been questionable so far, has to find a way to slow him down.

2. Quadir Copeland vs Melvin Council

While Peterson vs NC State’s Darrion Williams will be the marquee player matchup to watch, the ball-handlers will be just as important. Council (10.7 ppg and 5.3 apg), a 6’4 transfer from St. Bonaventure, is shooting just 35% from the field but has been a solid distributor and defender on the perimeter. Copeland (14.1 ppg and 5.1 apg), who followed Coach Wade over from McNeese State, is shooting a whopping 61% from the field and over 55% from deep on limited attempts. For the Wolfpack to pull off the upset, Copeland will need to win this battle decisively. 

3. Ven-Allen Lubin taking on the Kansas frontcourt

It’s been a good start for Lubin offensively at NC State, averaging 13.3 ppg and 7.2 rpg on 68% shooting from the field. But on the defensive end, his 6’8", 220-pound undersized frame inside has contributed to the team’s problems. He’ll be dealing with Flory Bidunga (14.7 ppg and 9.0 rpg) for the Jayhawks, along with Bryson Tiller inside. If Peterson has a good day on the perimeter, NC State can’t afford for Bidunga to go off as well to have a chance at this victory.