Oregon basketball: 3 starting lineup options for 2020-21 season
Worst-case scenario
- Point Guard: Will Richardson
- Shooting Guard: Addison Patterson
- Guard/Forward: Chris Duarte
- Forward: C.J. Walker
- Center: Chandler Lawson
For me, the worst-case scenario for Oregon basketball in the 2020-21 season is if the incoming transfers aren’t able to crack the starting rotation. While there is something to be said for experience, the returning players for the Ducks could use some playmakers around them if they’re going to take it to the next level.
Richardson, Duarte and Walker don’t require much more time as we’ve discussed them — though it should be mentioned that the latter is somewhat of a wild card. He has undoubtedly been a disappointment in his young career with the Ducks. The talent that made him a highly coveted recruit, however, still makes him worthwhile.
If Hardy is unable to contribute as a starter right away, though, the other starting guard spot with Richardson will likely fall on Addison Patterson as he enters his sophomore season. He’s explosive and has size and length on the wing and cracked the rotation late in the 2019-20 season to prove himself a great deal. The question becomes if he’s able to take a step forward again.
Speaking of the worst-case, though, if Dante isn’t able to see the floor as a starter for whatever reason, then they would likely turn to sophomore Chandler Lawson, who filled in with Dante injured last season. He’s a fine scorer and a good rebounder but he doesn’t offer the overall offensive upside nor the defensive presence that Dante has the potential to for this club.
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