Kentucky-NC thoughts

Some thoughts on the players and how they looked. The thing that was on display in this game and all season is how much more impressive the freshmen class of Kentucky has been. These programs were 1-2 going in, but NC's freshmen simply haven't lived up to their hype yet. Kentucky's have.

Ed Davis: Solid defensive numbers, but only 6 FGAs. Good if he plans on emulating Michael Ruffin. Bad if he hopes to remain in the top 5 of the 2010 draft.

Tyler Zeller: With 7-footers, especially those at elite programs, I like to keep them in the back of my mind and track them whether they deserve such attention or not. It's just that a great 7-footer is a game-changer more than any other type of player and such players need to be given more attention than perimeter players. Zeller is starting to show some signs. Nothing too spectacular yet, but his rebounding has improved and the fact that he was effective against a strong front line is impressive. Eventually Carolina is going to have to tighten up their roster and start giving bigger minutes to fewer players. Zeller seems a likely beneficiary.

Deon Thompson: It's probably time for him to go back to being a complimentary player. Right now he's only standing in the way of Davis, Zeller, Henson and the twins.

Patrick Patterson: As solid as ever. So far he's thriving with the talented frosh and that will only boost his stock. He's still money from close in and his outside shot keeps looking better. If he keeps this up, he's a top 10 pick.

DeMarcus Cousins: Some concerns about him were realized in this game. So far he's been spectacular, but erratic. This game only saw him as erratic. The positive is he made a few nice passes that belied his poor A/TO. I still consider him the top big guy out there. His upside is just too great at this point to pass on.

John Wall: He had a high number of TOs, but looked as good as ever. What I love about Wall is he's a PG first and foremost. Even though he's the most athletic guy n the court and can score easily himself, he looks first to get his teammates involved. This trait will serve him well and makes Kentucky the championship favorite this year. Everything else about him is solid. He looks like the next great NBA PG.