We brought in Simmons because we needed another PG and Zavier left some question marks after last season. Our expectation was that Simmons, with his experience and savvy, would step in and Zavier would remain the back up, albeit with more minutes than last season. Having watched the open practice and read the scuttlebutt, it appears to me that Simmons and Simpson are even Steven at PG now. This a positive development because it's not the result of Simmons disappointing; Simpson has raised his game. Guard play is incredibly important for Beilein's offense; no surprise there. Walton played as well or better than any PG in the Beilein era the last half of last season. We saw the result.
Having two PGs who can spell one another without a drop off in production is a real luxury that we haven't had. Both kids are tough. Both will be pests on defense. Neither can be the Walton we saw last season, but Derrick tired carrying so much of the load. He had to avoid fouls, which probably effected his defense. Hopefully, the combo of Simmons and Simpson will make up for the loss of Walton with energy and aggressiveness.
I really think that Brooks is going to get significant minutes backing up MAAR. The thought was that Poole would be the first off the bench, but right now I like Brooks versatile game and intelligent play. Poole and Ibi are 2/3 players, which would mean getting minutes behind Matthews if Brooks secures the 2 backup role. One of them is going to be on the bench. Ibi gives us Matthews athleticism and hopefully a better three point shot. Poole should be a plus shooter, but I'm not sure about his defense or shot selection.
There's been some talk about playing Simmons and Simpson together at times, but I don't see the need for that with MAAR and Brooks at 2. The above are my early impressions. I could be way off. But it's fun to ponder the possibilities.
Having two PGs who can spell one another without a drop off in production is a real luxury that we haven't had. Both kids are tough. Both will be pests on defense. Neither can be the Walton we saw last season, but Derrick tired carrying so much of the load. He had to avoid fouls, which probably effected his defense. Hopefully, the combo of Simmons and Simpson will make up for the loss of Walton with energy and aggressiveness.
I really think that Brooks is going to get significant minutes backing up MAAR. The thought was that Poole would be the first off the bench, but right now I like Brooks versatile game and intelligent play. Poole and Ibi are 2/3 players, which would mean getting minutes behind Matthews if Brooks secures the 2 backup role. One of them is going to be on the bench. Ibi gives us Matthews athleticism and hopefully a better three point shot. Poole should be a plus shooter, but I'm not sure about his defense or shot selection.
There's been some talk about playing Simmons and Simpson together at times, but I don't see the need for that with MAAR and Brooks at 2. The above are my early impressions. I could be way off. But it's fun to ponder the possibilities.
