Illinois Basketball: 4 big questions for the Illini against Rutgers

2 of 4

CHAMPAIGN, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 09: Luke Goode #10 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts after a play during the first half against the Jackson State Tigers at State Farm Center on November 09, 2021 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

2. Can Illinois continue getting great bench production?

The Illinois lineup has been changed quite often this season due to injuries, suspensions, and whatever Andre Curbelo is going through. This has really changed the flow of the game for the Illini.

Despite the uncertainty, Illinois seems to be pushing through. They have played well the past three games, and the bench has been a big reason why the Illini have won three-straight contests.

Over the past three games, Illinois’ bench has averaged 20 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per contest. This includes a big performance by Alfonso Plummer off the bench against Kansas State. The bench, overall, has been huge for Illinois.

I am going to be watching to see if the bench play can sustain a high level of production. Illinois is going to need it to happen. I think we might see Trent Frazier moved back into a starting role, so this will take away from some of the scoring.

The freshmen are going to have to step up and play well. Luke Goode has proven he can be a productive bench player for the Illini. I think RJ Melendez is probably heading back to the bench as well. These two combined for nine points against Notre Dame.

Throughout the Rutgers game, I will be watching to see what type of minutes Illinois can get out of their bench. If we can get somewhere between 13-18 points each game, then we should be fine.

Home/Illinois Basketball