The Syracuse Orange, off to a promising start with a 3-0 record, are set to face the Monmouth Hawks, who stand at 1-2, in their last preparation game before heading to the Players Era event in Las Vegas. The game will commence at 9:00 PM and can be viewed on the ACC Network. Here are some key factors to keep an eye on during the matchup.
First, the focus will be on the minutes played by JJ, who although not expected to over-exert himself, may find valuable time on the court. Given the absence of games leading up to their significant encounter against Houston, it is vital for him to gain some rhythm and on-court continuity. Observing how JJ pairs with Kiyan could present potential solutions for when Nait George is off the floor.
Another player to watch is Kiyan Anthony, who has emerged as a reliable offensive contributor early in the season. In light of Starling’s absence, Anthony’s ability to score has been impressive, averaging over 17 points per game. His performance as both a scorer and a passer will be crucial as Syracuse prepares to take on more formidable defenses in Las Vegas.
Defensively, Syracuse’s ability to force turnovers will be a pivotal aspect of this game. With a turnover rate of 26.8% on defense, the Orange have demonstrated a knack for creating opportunities, while Monmouth’s offense struggles with a turnover rate of 27.1%. Expect Syracuse to capitalize on this advantage, potentially forcing over 20 turnovers and quickly shifting the balance of the game.
Lastly, rebounding will be another area of focus. After a challenging performance on the boards in their last game, it will be interesting to see if Syracuse can reclaim control against a Monmouth team that averages 41.3 rebounds per game. Key players like Nate Kingz and the newly expanded role for Sadiq White will be essential in determining how Syracuse fares on the glass.
As the game approaches, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these various factors play out, setting the stage for what’s to come in Las Vegas.