Now that we’ve all had some time to process the news that Caleb Wilson will be out indefinitely with a broken hand, let’s talk about it.
It’s obvious what Wilson’s injury means for Carolina: Like a TV show
writing off a beloved main character, it just won’t be the same product we’ve enjoyed watching. “Next man up” may be a popular rallying cry in situations like this, but it doesn’t land that well when you’re talking about replacing a generational talent.
So what are fair expectations for this team moving forward?
We can safely assume Wilson won’t be available until the postseason, and he probably won’t be back to full strength until the NCAA Tournament. The Tar Heels’ remaining regular season schedule consists of:
- Pitt (Feb. 14)
- @ NC State (Feb. 17)
- @ Syracuse (Feb. 21)
- Louisville (Feb. 23)
- Virginia Tech (Feb. 28)
- Clemson (March 3)
- @ Duke (March 7)
It’s a very good thing that the Tar Heels’ first game without Wilson is at home against one of the worst power conference teams in the country. The fact that they’ll have an opportunity to adjust to their new reality before heading to Raleigh gives me hope that that game won’t be a complete disaster, but it’s still a question mark–as are the Louisville and Clemson matchups. Along with Pitt, Syracuse and Virginia Tech come off as teams Carolina should be able to beat without Wilson. I’ve already accepted that the return trip to Duke will be a bloodbath.
All in all, I think it’s reasonable to still expect the Tar Heels to win a majority of their remaining games and make the ACC Tournament quarterfinals. As for the NCAA Tournament, it may be better to wait until we have a clearer picture of Wilson’s health and Carolina’s place on the bracket before deciding what results would be acceptable.
Let me know your thoughts below.
