The potential lineup for the Razorbacks doesn’t skew toward youth but rather lacks significant experience.
John Calipari, the coach of the Razorbacks, faces significant considerations heading into the upcoming season. With a hefty salary of $8 million annually, he holds the authority to determine starting lineups, allocate playing time, and optimize player combinations for optimal team performance.
Kentucky showcased formidable offensive prowess in the previous season, boasting a plethora of talented players capable of stretching opposing defenses thin. Rarely did the Wildcats fail to score below 85 points per game, finishing with an impressive offensive efficiency ranking of 122.2, placing them seventh nationally according to KenPom. However, their defensive performance left much to be desired, with an adjusted rating of 102.9, ranking them 109th in the nation and ninth in the SEC. The team’s youthful composition, coupled with their fast-paced style of play, likely contributed to defensive lapses.
The current Arkansas roster maintains an average age of around 20 years, similar to last season and closer to the 2012 squad led by Anthony Davis. Potential transfers like DJ Wagner and Kasean Pryor, along with existing additions such as Johnell Davis and Jonas Aidoo, enhance the team’s depth and experience. Davis, a standout guard from FAU, and Aidoo, a reliable center, are expected to play pivotal roles as starters.
True freshman Boogie Fland is likely to assume the point guard position, while the small forward spot may see competition between freshman Karter Knox and transfer Adou Thiero from Kentucky. Knox boasts impressive scoring abilities, while Thiero has shown significant improvement in his sophomore season with Kentucky. Additionally, Zvonimir Ivisic, a skilled big man, is poised to contribute substantially after demonstrating flashes of his potential last season.
The projected rotation for Arkansas features a mix of youth and experience, providing Coach Calipari with various options to tailor the team’s strategy. As the roster continues to take shape, Calipari’s meticulous approach contrasts with the more rapid changes under former coach Eric Musselman. Potential additions like Wagner and Pryor could further alter the team’s dynamics, offering exciting prospects for the upcoming season.
