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Illinois Basketball: 5 takeaways from the Illini loss to Indiana

By Rees Woodcock

CHAMPAIGN, IL - FEBRUARY 08: Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood shouts to players during the Big Ten Conference college basketball game between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Illinois Fighting Illini on February 8, 2018, at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CHAMPAIGN, IL - FEBRUARY 08: Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood shouts to players during the Big Ten Conference college basketball game between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Illinois Fighting Illini on February 8, 2018, at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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CHAMPAIGN, IL – JANUARY 24: Te’Jon Lucas
CHAMPAIGN, IL – JANUARY 24: Te’Jon Lucas /

5. I hope Te’Jon Lucas stays around for another two years

One of the moves that had to be made earlier this season was to have Trent Frazier start. This move meant Te’Jon Lucas would now be coming off the bench for the Illini.

This move started off a little shaky but now it is turning into something I enjoy watching. Frazier is clearly a starting guard in the Big Ten. He has the ability to be sensational on the court in every aspect of the game. I think Lucas is in a perfect role as well.

Lucas is coming off the bench for Illinois and giving them solid minutes. Since coming back from his suspension, he has averaged 20.1 minutes per game as a reserve. These aren’t just throwaway minutes, though. He has been a huge contributor for the Illini.

The stat sheet gets filled up when Lucas is in the game. There have been two games where he hit the double-digit scoring mark. He has also contributed 2.2 assists per game in the last seven contests as well. He continues to give the Illini some crucial minutes.

Next: Illini offer Tennessee forward Antavion Collum

I could see how the move to the bench could ruffle some feathers, though. I really hope Lucas stays around for his final two years with the Illinois basketball program because they need the bench talent that he brings to the table. Lucas gives the Illini depth and that is invaluable.

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