The Syracuse Orange (3-0) welcome the Monmouth Hawks (1-2) to the JMA Dome for their final tune-up before next week’s Players Era event in Las Vegas. The game tips tonight at 9:00 on the ACC Network and here’s what we’re watching for:
Syracuse shouldn’t need JJ to over-extend in this one, but with another week and no games before facing Houston, it makes sense that he gets some minutes. This is the last chance to build more on-court continuity before the Houston/Kansas games. I’d like to see some opportunities for JJ to play alongside Kiyan to see if that duo would be an option when Nait George sits.
Dom: Does Kiyan stay cooking?
Amid Starling’s absence, Anthony in the young season continues to be a consistent source of offense alongside Freeman. He’s reached at least 15 points in Syracuse’s first three games and is averaging over 17 per game so far. Anthony has also flashed as a passer, and him staying hot will be key as the Orange prepare for much tougher defenses they will be facing in Vegas.
Max: A large turnover margin
Syracuse’s defense looks like a nightmare matchup for Monmouth, at least on paper. While the Orange have forced turnovers on 26.8% of their defensive possessions (sixth-best per Kenpom), the Hawks’ offense gives up possession at one of the highest rates in the country (27.1%, fifth-worst). I’m expecting a minimum of 20 forced turnovers from SU’s D, which should quickly put this game out of reach.
Let’s see how Syracuse rebounds the ball this game after a tough showing on the glass Saturday. Monmouth is a solid rebounding team, pulling down 41.3 rebounds per game. The Hawks were just minus one on the glass against Seton Hall last outing. Can Will Kyle get some help rebounding from the forwards? Nate Kingz has been real good at sticking his nose in there and rebounding in traffic. Without Tyler Betsey, Sadiq White should get more run in this game. Let’s see if White and Donnie Freeman have good rebounding nights.
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What will you be watching for tonight?
