I know this has been said, but I think losing Aidoo is a big negative. It’ll be interesting to see how this week’s talks go. I think we’ll hear about some players entering the portal Friday/Monday/Tuesday. If Aidoo stays, it’s going to be close to impossible to sign a big. Obviously, we’d all like to see a 7.5 foot monster or even a 6 10” guy with aggression and body strength. That said, Aidoo is a 12/8/2 guy who knows the offense and fits the system. Playing a blend of four out or 4 and 5 in will give us flexibility against different opposing lineups. I’m not sure there is an upgrade available in the portal now. Aidoo has to become a consistent threat to hit fifteen feet in, and has to have a game for playing back to the basket against taller guys. He was improving at both, but folded in both tournaments. He is a finesse guy. He’s never going to bang, but a finesse guy can still get more points, blocks, rebounds than he does. His pick and roll game and his low screen cuts are all better. ZZ knows and trusts where he’s going. That hasn’t always been the case. My wish is that we upgrade our guard game with wings who can shoot and drive and play team defense. Our bigs aren’t a perfect group, but many coaches would happily take the combo of Aidoo, Awaka, and Estrella. I also mentioned that preseason practice yielded a lot of Estrella and Cade stretching the baseline. I didn’t see it at all in the season, but it’d be a great weapon if they can hit out there, and cut to the basket from their on pg drives. I know some would like Aidoo to move on. I’m in the frustrated, but keep him group. I think he’s part of the core.
