The injury bug has hit Illinois early this season.
After losing David Mirkovic over the summer with a foot injury and Jake Davis in the first game of the season with a shoulder injury, the Illini look to be without key contributors for an extended period of time.
Fortunately, Illinois’ strong freshman class should be able to soften the blow of these losses, and, given the tough non-conference schedule it faces, many of them will have to step into greater roles.
One of the biggest beneficiaries of the injuries
is Ethan Brown. Brown posted a solid stat line in the season opener with 12 points and nine rebounds in 22 minutes.
After being used as a starter in the opening game, he seems poised to continue to take on an important role going forward.
Likewise, Zavier Zens also had a strong first game, playing 25 minutes, the most among any Illini. Posting 12 points and three rebounds in that time, Zens still has room to grow, but the pieces are there for him to excel in a more important role.
Adding Lucas Morillo and Landon Davis, who have looked strong thus far, it appears that they can provide some real depth for Illinois in these turbulent times.
Obviously, these players and their production are incredibly important in winning games now, but the ramifications of increased playing time could have long-lasting effects into the postseason.
With the roster as deep as it is and young players gaining valuable experience, Illinois will have the opportunity to roll out a lineup potentially 10 players deep come March.
Strong, diverse lineups could give Illinois the extra edge towards winning the national championship.
Only a game into the year, it feels as though Illinois’ season may be coming to a crossroads. Either this team will succumb to injuries and flounder, or it will rise above them and come out looking and feeling as competitive as any team in the country.
Given the players on the roster and the staff’s ability to adapt, it seems likely that the latter will be true.
