Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini loss to Tennessee

5. I would bet Luke Goode plays the most NBA games

You might read the title of this slide and think that I am crazy. Really, Luke Goode is going to play the most NBA games out of the entire Illinois roster?

Yes.

The vast majority of the Illinois basketball roster who has NBA aspirations have glaring flaws that were exposed against Tennessee.

Terrence Shannon Jr. is a streaky shooter who won’t drive the lane consistently. He settles for three-pointers when they aren’t there too many times. It seems at times he loses focus and can go into the shadows too.

I believe the thought of Coleman Hawkins playing in the NBA might be dwindling too. He just doesn’t look the same. Hawkins takes bad shots, especially in the Tennessee game. I also believe Hawkins’ defense isn’t good enough for the NBA. There is a misconception that the NBA doesn’t play defense, but that isn’t true. It’s why players like Jimmer Fredette can’t stick. You must be able to play defense.

And then you get to Goode. He is an extremely efficient three-point shooter. Goode is hitting 45.8% of his three-pointers this season. He is consistent too. Goode isn’t going 8-of-10 in one game and then 2-of-11 in another game. He has hit at least 40% in all but one game this season.

Goode’s defense is what really stands out to me. He hustles after every ball and is fundamental when guarding opposing teams. The ability to lock down his man is impressive.

I can honestly see Goode getting into the NBA and having a long career. He is a three-and-D guy in The Association. He comes down the court, puts up a solid three-point attempt, and then gets back and plays solid defense. I could see Goode being someone like Max Strus.

So, yes, I’ll go on record and say it. I think Goode will play the most NBA games out of all the players on the Illinois roster. Against Tennessee, he continued to show his talent on both ends of the court. This kid has special talent.